SCHEKBEBGER'S   SEKIES, 


OOKS  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY. 


MENTS  OF  ORNITHOLOGY 


PREPARED  FOR  THE  USE  OF 


SCHOOLS  AND  CO  'tiS, 


BY 


W.  S.  W.  RUSCHENBERGER,  M.D. 

in  the  TJ.  8.  1  •. 

-uial  Scien, 


FROM  THE  TEXT  OF 


MILNE  EDWARDS,  AND  ACHILLE  COMTE, 

PROFESSORS   OF  NATURAL  HISTORY  IN  THE   COLJJ 
^^^^^B        OF  HEKRI  IV,   AND    CHARLEMAGNE. 


W  ITH    PLATES 


HILADELPHIA: 
GRIGG   &   ELLIOT, 

NO.  9   NORTH   FO  U  RT  H  STREET; 

1845. 


THE  LIBRARY 

OF 

THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  CALIFORNIA 


PRESENTED  BY 

PROF.  CHARLES  A.  KOFOID  AND 
MRS.  PRUDENCE  W.  KOFOID 


Plate  8. 


15. 


16. 


A  natomy. — Beaks. 


HT7SCHENBERGER>S   SERIES. 


FIRST  BOOKS  OF  NATURAL  HISTORY. 


ELEMENTS  OF  ORNITHOLOGY 


PREPARED  FOR  THE  USE  OF 


SCHOOLS    AND    COLLEGES, 


BY 


W.  S.  W.  RUSCHENBERGER,  M.D. 

Burgeon  in  the  U.  S.  Navy;  Fellow  of  the  College  of  Physicians;  Hon. 

Member  of  the  Philadelphia  Medical  Society;  Member  of  the 

Academy  of  Natural  Sciences  of  Philadelphia,  &c.  &c. 


FROM   THE   TEXT   OF 


MILNE  EDWARDS,  AND  ACHILLE  COMTE, 

PROFESSORS   OF   NATURAL   HISTORY   IN   THE   COLLEGES 
OF    HENRI   IV,    AND    CHARLEMAGNE. 


WITH     PLAT  ES. 


PHILADELPHIA: 
GRIGG  &  ELLIOT, 

NO.  9  NORTH    FOURTH   STREET 

1845. 


Entered,  according  to  the  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1842,  by 
W.  S.  W.  RUSCHENBERGER,  M.D., 

in  the  clerk's  office  of  the  District  Court  of  the  United  States  in  and  for  the 
Eastern  District  of  Pennsylvania. 


.  AND  P.  G.  COLLINS,  PRINTERS. 

(4) 


-\o!7 

,  5" 

L*0 

'.  J  ^  J 

ORNITHOLOGY. 


PREFACE. 


The  following  Primer,  or  First  Book  of  Ornithology,  has  been  called 
"  Third  Book  of  Natural  History,"  because  it  is  the  third  of  the  series, 
and,  like  its  predecessors,  is  only  designed  to  initiate  those  who  wish  to 
study  this  very  interesting  branch  of  Natural  History.  It  presents  a 
general,  and  almost  synoptical  view  of  the  subject,  and  will  be  found,  I 
hope,  to  facilitate  the  studies  of  those  who  may  wish  to  learn.  It  merely 
points  the  way  to  more  extended  knowledge,  the  acquisition  of  which 
must  always  depend  more  on  the  inclination  and  industry  of  the  student, 
than  upon  the  facilities  he  may  possess.  The  homely  comparison  of  the 
horse  lead  to  the  stream  may  be  referred  to  as  illustrative  of  the  neces- 
sity for  the  presence  of  zeal  and  industry,  in  order  to  acquire  knowledge: — 
the  mere  possession  of  the  very  best  books  will  be  of  no  use, — will  impart 
no  information,  unless  they  be  referred  to,  read,  or  studied. 

Teachers  who  are  so  disposed,  will  find  in  these  pages,  ample  oppor- 
tunities of  pointing  out  to  those  they  instruct,  the  beautiful  adaptation  of 
the  organization  of  every  living  thing,  to  the  mode  of  life  it  is  designed 
to  observe,  and  the  kind  of  food  upon  which  it  was  pre-ordered  it  should 
live.  To  point  out,  or  even  allude  to  this  universal  adaptation  of  every 
thing  in  nature,  to  the  puposes  for  which  it  was  designed  by  the  benefi- 
cent Creator,  would  have  carried  us  far  beyond  our  limits,  and  injured 
our  design  of  presenting,  in  a  very  short  space,  as  many  facts  as  possi- 
ble, without  obscuring  the  view  of  the  division,  arrangement,  or  classifi- 
cation, a  knowledge  of  which  it  is  the  great  object  of  these  little  books 
to  teach.  Yet,  this  can  be  advantageously  done  verbally,  by  every  teacher, 
and  his  pupils  will  soon  learn  that  once  becoming  acquainted  with  the 
general  anatomy  and  physiology  of  an  animal,  whether  it  walk  upon  the 
dry  land,  float  through  the  air,  or  seek  the  ocean  depths,  its  mode  of  life 
and  general  habits  are  immediately  discovered.  This  fact  will  become 
more  clearly  manifest  as  we  proceed  in  the  series,  and  in  the  end,  the 
student  will  comprehend  how  Geologists  are  able  to  deduce,  not 'only  the 
habits  of  the  animal,  but  also  the  form  of  the  animal  itself,  by  the  ex- 
amination of  only  a  few  of  its  bones. 
1* 


PREFACE. 


Although  the  works  of  M.M.  Edwards  and  Comte  are  the  chief  sources 
from  which  the  materials  of  these  Piimers  have  been  derived,  others  have 
been  freely  used,  and  the  classification  and  arrangement  of  the  great  Cuvier, 
have  been  strictly  adhered  to. 

With  the  view  of  assisting  the  student  in  understanding  and  remem- 
bering the  systematic  names,  their  etymologies  have  been  added  in  the 
Glossary.  And,  in  as  much  as  all  persons  who  are  desirous  of  studying 
Natural  History,  are  not  acquainted  with  the  Latin  and  Greek  languages, 
the  words  from  the  latter  have  been  given  in  italics,  in  preference  to 
using  the  proper  Greek  characters,  and  the  omega,  where  it  occurs,  has 
been  designated  thus,  6. 

It  is  not  designed  that  the  questions  at  the  foot  of  the  page  shall  be 
answered  by  repeating  the  text  from  memory;  the  pupil  should  be  able 
to  give  the  facts  in  his  o\vn  language,  and  show  he  understands  the 
subject. 

The  Plates  were  engraved  by  Mr.  G.  Thomas,  No.  37  South  Third 
Street,  Philadelphia. 

Philadelphia,  April  15th,  1842. 


ORNITHOLOGY. 


CONTENTS. 


LESSON   I. 

Class  of  Birds. — Zoological  characters  of  Birds. — Peculiarities  of  organi- 
zation. 

LESSON    II. 

Eggs. — Incubation. — Nests. — Migration. — Classification. 

LESSON    III. 

Order  of  Accipitres. — Zoological  characters. — Habits. — Division  into  two 
families. 

Family  of  DiurneB. — Zoological  characters  and  habits  of  Vultures,  (Yellow 
Vulture,  King  of  the  Vulture?,  Condor,  Percnopterus  of  EgyptX — Grif- 
fins.— Genus  of  Falcons. — Division  into  two  groups,  noble  and  igno- 
ble.— Falconry,  (Common  Falcon). — Eagles. — Fisher-Eagles. — Spai. 
row-hawks. — Kites. — Buzzards. — Harriers. — Characters  and  habits. 

Family  of  Nocturnse. — Characters  and  habits. — (Owls. — Strix. — Due). 

LESSON    IV. 

Order  of  Passerine.— Zoological  characters. — Habits. — Division  into  five 

families. 
Family   of  Dentirostres. — Shrikes,      Flycatchers,    Cotingas,    Blackbirds, 

Thrushes,    Water-thrushes,   Orioles,   Lyres,    Warblers,  (such   as  the 

Nightingale,  Linnet',  and  Wrens.) 
Family  of  Fissirostres,  (Swallows). — Habits. — (Swallow,  properly  so  called, 

Martin). — Goatsuckers  — Habits. 
Family  of  Coniros'  res. — Larks. — Titmouse.—  Bunt  ings. — Sparrows. — Crow  s, 

(Crow  properly  so  called,  Jackdaw,  Magpie,  Jay). — Birds  of  Paradise* 

r  LESSON   V. 

Family  of  Tenuirostres. — Nuthatches. — Creepers. — Humming-birds. 

Family  of  Syndactylae. — Bee-eaters. — Kingfishers — Hornbills. 

Order  of  Scansorias. — Zoological  characters. — Woodpeckers. — Wrynecks. — 

Cuckoos. — Toucans. — Parrots, — Habits,  (Maccaw,  Paroquet?,  Parrots 

properly  so  called.) 


ORNITHOLOGY. 

LESSON    VI. 

Order  ofGallinaceae. — Zoological  characters. — Habits. — Hoccos. — Peacocks, 
(Common  Peacock).—  Turkey. —  Guinea-fowl. —Genus  of  Pheasants 
(The  Common  Cock,  Common  Pheasant,  Golden  Pheasant. — Genus  of 
Grouse  (The  Great  Heath-cock,  Partridge,  Quail). — Genus  of  Pigeons. 
Habits. — Currier-pigeons. 

LESSON   VII. 

Order  of  Grallatoriro. — Zoological  characters. — Habits. — Division  into  eight 

families. 

Family  of  Brevipennes. — Ostrich. — Organization. — Habits. — Cassowaries. 
Family  of  Pressirostres. — Bustards. — Plovers. — Lapwings. 
Family  of  Cultrirostres. — Cranes,  (Common   Crane). — Herons,  (Common, 

Heron). — Storks,  (Common  Stork). — Spoonbill. 
Family  of  Longirostres. — Genus  of  Curlews. — Ibis,  (Sacred  Ibis). — Snipe, 

(Woodcock,  Common  Snipe). — The  Avosets. 
Family  of  Macrodactyli. — Rails. — Water  Hens. 
Family  of  Flamingos. — Common  Flamingos. — Habits. 


LESSON    VIII. 

Order  of  Palmipedes. — Zoological  characters. — Habits. — Division  into  four 

families. 

Family  of  Divers — Grebes. — Auk. — Penguins. 

Family  of  Longipennes. — Petrels. — Albatross. — Gulls. — Sea-swallows. 
Family  of  Totipalmatse. — Genus  of  Pelicans,  (Pelican  properly  so  called).— 

Organization. — Habits. — Frigate  bird. — Boobies. 
Family  of  Lamellirostres. — Genus  of  Ducks. — Swans. — Geese. — Ducks.— 

Eiders. — Genus  of  the  Merganser. 


ORNITHOLOGY: 

THE   NATURAL    HISTORY    OF    BIRDS. 

LESSON    I. 

CLASS  OF  BIRDS. — Zoological  Characters  of  Birds. — Peculiari- 
ties of  their  Organization. 

GENERAL    NOTIONS    ABOUT   BIRDS, 
Of  the  Organization  of  Birds, 

1.  THE  CLASS  OF  BIRDS  comprises  all  vertebrate  animals  that 
are  the  best  organized  for  flying.     They  are  readily  distinguished 
by  the  general  form  of  the  body,  and  by  the  feathers  with  which 
they  are  covered ;  but  the  most  important  characters  possessed 
by  them,  consist  in  the  structure  of  their  internal  organs,  and  the 
manner  in  which  their  various  functions  are  performed. 

2.  In  fact,  they  are  oviparous  vertebrata,  in  which  the  circula- 
tion  is  double  and  complete ;  the  heart  has  four  cavities;  the  blood 
is  warm,  and  the  respiration  is  aerial,  and  double. 

3.  To  distinguish  them  from  other  vertebrate  animals,  it   is 
only  necessary  to  say,  they  have  a  complete  circulation   and   a 
double  aerial  icspiration;  or  simply  to  remember  that  they  are 
the  only  oviparous  vertebrata  having  warm  blood. 

4.  The  general  form  of  birds  varies  very  little,  and  is  in  rela- 
tion to  the  mode  of  locomotion  which  is  peculiar  to  them.     They 
rarely  attain  a  very  large  size,  and  their  abdominal  or  posterior 
extremities  are  especially  designed  for  standing  and  walking, 

1.  What  animals  compose  the  class  of  birds  ?     By  what  characters  are 
birds  readily  distinguished  from  other  animals  ?     In  what  important  particu- 
lars do  birds  differ  from  other  animals? 

2.  What  are  birds?     What  is  the  character  of  the  circulation    in  birds? 
How  many  cavitie-;  has  the  heart  ?     Are  birds  cold  blooded  animals  ?     What 
is  the  character  of  the  respiration  in  birds  ? 

3.  How  are  birds  distinguished  from  other  vertebrate  animals  ? 

4.  What  is  remarked  of  the  general  form  of  birds?     To    what  purposes 
are  the  lower  extremities  of  birds  applied  ?     What   are   the   functions   per- 
formed by  their  superior,  or  thoracic  extremities  ?    What  are  these  extremi- 
ties  called  ? 


12 SKELETON  OF  BIRDS. __ 

while  the  thoracic  or  anterior  extremities  never  serve  them  for 
walking,  nor  for  prehension,  nor  for  touch ;  but  they  form  a  sort 
of  broad  oars,  named  wings,  which,  by  striking  the  air,  sustain 
and  cause  the  animal  to  move  in  it. 

5.  The    SKELETON,    (Plate  I,  Jig.   1.)    which  determines   the 
general  form  of  the  body,  and  which  is,  at  the  same  time,  one 
of  the  most  important  parts  of  the  apparatus  of  motion,  is  com- 
posed of  nearly  the  same  bones  as  that  of  the  mammalia ;  but 
their  form  and  disposition  vary. 

6.  The  head  is  small,  the  bones  of  the  cranium  are   soldered 
together  at  an  early  period  of  life,  and  the  face  is  formed  almost 
entirely  by  the  jaws  which  are  very  much  elongated  and  consti- 
tute a  beak.     The  superior  mandible  or  jaw  is  articulated  with  the 
cranium,  in  such  a  manner  as  to  allow  some  mobility,  and  the 
lower  mandible,  in  place  of  being  articulated  directly  with  the 
cranium,  as  is  the  case  in  mammalia,  is  suspended  from  a  moveable 
bone,  called  the  square  or  tympanic  bane,  which  is  articulated  with 
the  petrous  bone ;  [this  mode  of  articulation  of  the  lower  jaw  is 
met  with  also   in  other  oviparous  vertebrate  animals,  that  is,  in 
fishes  and  reptiles  ]     These  mandibles  are  composed  of  many 
pieces,   and  are  enveloped  in  a  horny  substance  which  takes  the 
place  of  teeth. 

7.  The  articulation  of  the  head  with  the  vertebral   column  is 
much   more  moveable   than  it  is  in  mammals,  and  is  effected 
through  the  means  of  a  single  rounded  eminence,    (called  con- 
dyle,)  while  in  the  mammalia  there  are  always  two  of  these 
condyles.     This  arrangement  enables  the  bird  to  direct  his  face 
entirely  and  completely  backwards. 

8.  The  neck  of  birds  is  also  very  moveable  ;  and  as  these  ani- 
mals generally  take  their  food  from  the  ground  with  their  beak, 
the  length  of  this  part  of  their  body  is  necessarily  in   proportion 
to  the  height  at  which  they  are  placed  on  their  legs.     This  is  in- 

5.  la  what  respect  does  the  skeleton  of  birds  differ  from  that  of  mammals? 

6.  What  is  remarked  of  the  head  of  birds  ?    What  forms  the  face  ?    How 
does  the  articulation  of  the  upper  jaw  with  the  cranium  differ  in  hirds,  from 
the  same  articulation  in  the  mammalia  ?     What    is    the    peculiarity    of  the 
articulation  of  the  lower  jaw  in  birds?     With  what  bone  does   the  square- 
bone  articulate  ?     Is  this  mode  of  articulation  of  the  lower  jaw  peculiar   to 
birds  ?     How  are  t!  ese  mandibles  composed  ? 

7.  What  is  the  peculiarity  of  the  articulation  of  the  head  (of  birds)  with 
the  vertebral  column  ?     What  is  the  advantage  resulting  from  this  arrange- 
ment ? 

8.  Upon  what  circumstances  does  the  length  of  the  neck  seem  to  depend  ? 
What  is  the   most  common    number  of  cervical  vertebrae  in  birds  ?     How 
many  cervical  vertebrae  has  the  Swan  ?     How  many  has  the  Sparrow  ?  Are 
the  bones  of  the  neck  very  moveable  on  each  other  ? 


SKELETON  OF  THE  TRUNK. 1 3 

deed  almost  always  observed.  The  number  of  cervical  verte- 
brae varies  much ;  most  generally  there  are  twelve  or  fifteen ; 
but  sometimes  we  find  a  much  larger  number,  and  at  others,  not 
so  many ;  the  Swan  has  twenty-three,  and  the  Sparrow  only 
nine.  These  bones  are  always  very  rnoveable  on  each  other,  and 
from  the  disposition  of  their  articular  surfaces,  the  neck  may  be 
bent  like  the  letter  S,  and,  consequently,  be  elongated  or  shortened 
accordingly  as  the  curves  are  diminished  or  increased. 

9.  The   bony  frame   of  the  trunk  is  very  solid  ;  in  birds  that 
fly,  (and  with  the  exception  of  a  very  few,  they  all  possess   this 
faculty,)  the  vertebrae  of  the  back,  which  necessarily  support  the 
ribs,  and  consequently  afford  a  point  of  support  for  the  wings, 
are  entirely  immoveable  and  are  frequently  anchylosed,  that  is, 
soldered  together ;  the  lumbar  and  sacral  vertebrae  are  all  united 
into  one  bone,  having  the  same  uses  as  the  sacrum  in  the  mam- 
malia :  finally,  the  coccygian  vertebrae  are  small  and  moveable  ; 
the  last  one,  which  sustains  the  large  tail  feathers,  is   ordinarily 
larger  than  the  others  and  marked  by  a  projecting  spine  or  crest. 

10.  The  ribs  of  birds  also  possess  some  peculiarities  of  struc- 
ture which  tend  to  increase  the  strength  of  the  thorax ;  but   the 
most  remarkable  part  of  the  bony  frame  of  this  division   of  the 
body  is  the  sternum,  which,  affording   points  of  origin  for  the 
chief  muscles  of  flight,  becomes  very  much  developed,  and  con- 
stitues  a  broad  shield  or  breast-plate,  which  extends  far  back 
over  the  abdomen,  and  almost  always  presents  a  sort   of  very 
prominent  and  longitudinal  crest  or  keel,  called  brisket.  ( Plate 
I,  fig.  2.)  It  is  remarked  that  this  shield  is  most  developed  and 
most  completely  ossified  in  those  birds  that  fly  best. 

1 1.  The  bones  of  the  shoulders  are  disposed  in  a  manner  most 
favourable  for  the  power  of  the  wings ;  they  are  three  in  number, 
namely;    a   Scapula,  a  Clavicle,   and   a  Coracoid  none.     The 
Scapula  is  much  elongated  ;  the  Clavicle  is  anchylosed  with  that 
of  the  opposite  side,  so  as  to  form  a  bone  resembling   in  shape, 
the  letter  V,  the  point  of  which  rests  against  the  Sternum  ;  the 
Coracoid  bone,  or  posterior  clavicle,  is  a  sort  of  second  clavicle, 
which,  in  the  mammalia,  is  rudimentary  and  confounded  with 
the  Scapula,  but  here  becomes  very  strong,  consituting  a  buttress 
placed  between  the  articulation  of  the  shoulder  and  the  sternum. 

9.  What  is  remarked  of  the  skeleton  of  the  trunk  ?     Are  the  vertebrse  of 
the  spinal  column  moveable  on  each  other  ? 

10.  What  is  remarkable  of  the  sternum  of  birds  ?     What  is  the  brisket? 
What  renders  it  neceslary  that  the  sternum  should  be  large  ? 

11.  How  many  bones  belong  to  the  shoulder?     What  are   they?     What 
is  the  form  and   situation  of  the   clavicle  ?     What   is  the   coracoid   bone  ? 
What  is  its  situation  ?     What   is  the  advantage   derived   from  the  double 
clavicles  in  birds  ? 


14 BONES  OF  THE  EXTREMITIES. 

These  double  clavicles  maintain  the  shoulders  apart  in  spite  of 
the  violent  force  applied  in  a  contrary  direction  by  the  exercise 
of  the  wings,  which  is  greater  the  stronger  the  flight. 

12.  The  wing  of  the  bird  corresponds  to  the  anterior  extremity 
of  mammals,   and   is   also  composed   of  three  principal    parts, 
namely :  the  arm,  the  fore-arm,  and  the  hand.     The  arm   con- 
sists  of  a  humerus  which  is  not  particularly  remarkable;  the 
fore-arm  which  consists  of  a  radius  and  an  ulna,  corresponds  in 
its  length    with  the  strength  of  the  flight  of  the  bird ;  and  the 
hand  is  reduced  to  a  sort  of  stump,  which  serves  for  the  insejr- 
tion  of  the  large  feathers  of  the  wing :  there  is   distinguished  a 
range  of  carpal  bones,  a  bone  in  the  form  of  a  style  which   rep- 
resents the  thumb,  a  single  metacarpal   bone   sustains  a  finger 
with  two  phalanges,  and  the  vestiges  of  a  third  finger  which  is 
represented  by  a  small  styloid  bone. 

13.  The  lower  extremities  of  birds  are  designed  solely  for 
support  and  for  walking ;  sometimes  they  become  the  organs  of 
natation,  and  there  are  some  of  these  animals  that  employ  them 
for  the  prehension  of  aliment.     The  bones  of  the  haunches   are 
strongly  developed ;  they  are  attached  to  the  neighbouring  part 
of  the  vertebral  column,  so  as  to  form  with  it  a  single  piece,  and 
the  bony  belt  which  results  from  this  assemblage,  and    which  is 
called  the  pelvis,  remains  almost  always   incomplete   in  front. 
The  femur  is  short  and  directed  forward ;  the  tibia  is  strong,  and  the 
fibula  is  reduced  to  a  mere  bony  style.  The  tarsus  and  metatarsus 
are  represented  by  a  single  bone,  the  length  of  which  determines 
the  height  of  the  bird  on  its  legs.     The  number  of  toes  varies 
from  four  to  two  ;  almost  always  there  are   three  directed   for- 
ward and  one  backwards.     The  number  of  phalanges  ordinarily 
increases  from  two  to  five,  from  the  hind  toe  or  thumb,  to   the 
fourth  toe.     We  therefore  count  two  phalanges  for  the  thumb  or 
great  toe,  three  for  the  internal  toe,  four  for  the   middle  toe,  and 
five  for  the  external. 

14.  In  swimming  birds  the  toes  are  palmate,  that  is,  united  by 
membranes  sufficiently  broad  to  allow  them  to  separate  from  each 
other,  and  when  spread,  to  form  a  sort  of  paddle.     In  those  that 

12.  How  does  the  wing  of  a  bird  differ  from  the  anterior  extremity  of  a 
mammal  ?     How  does  the  hand  resemble  that  of  a  mammal  ? 

13.  To  what  purposes  are  the  lower  extremities  applied  ?      How  does  the 
pelvis   of  birds   differ   from   that   of  mammals?     Is  the  fibula  complete  in 
biids  ?     How  are  the  tarsus  and  metatarsus  formed  ?     What  is  the  number 
of  toes  ?     How  many  phalanges  have  the  toes  ?  § 

14.  How  are  the  feet  of  swimming  birds  characterised  ?  What  is  remark- 
able in  the  feet  of  climbing  birds  ?     How  are  the  feet  of  wading  birds  dis- 
tinguished ?     How  is  it  that  birds  can  sleep  while  standing  on  the  limbs  of 
trees  without  falling  ? 


FEATHERS.  15 


climb  best,  two  toes  are  directed  forward  and  two  backwards ; 
and  in  those  that  wade  in  rivers,  marshes,  &c.,  in  search  of  fishes 
or  worms,  the  tarsi  are  so  long  that  the  animal  seems  to  be 
mounted  on  stilts.  In  all  these  animals  there  is  a  peculiar  mech- 
anism, by  means  of  which,  when  they  are  perched  upon  a  branch, 
the  weight  of  the  body  tends  to  flex  their  toes,  and  consequently 
to  make  them  closely  embrace  the  object  in  their  grasp ;  an 
arrangement  which  permits  them  to  repose  in  the  standing  posi- 
tion without  any  risk  of  falling  while  asleep. 

15.  The  feathers  with  which  the  body  of  birds  is  covered, 
serve  to  protect  them  against  cold  and  damp ;  and  they  are  also 
powerful  means  of  locomotion.  They  are  composed  of  a  horny 
stalk,  hollow  at  the  base,  and  armed  with  beards,  which  them- 
selves, have  still  smaller  beards  upon  them :  they  are  formed  by 
secreting  organs  which  are  analogous  in  their  nature  to  those 
which  produce  the  hairs  in  mammalia.  [The  secreting  organ 
destined  to  form  a  feather  is  called  a  capsule,  and  often  acquires 
considerable  length.  According  to  the  observations  of  M.  F. 
Cuvier,  it  would  appear  that  the  capsule  grows  during  the  whole 
period  occupied  in  the  developement  of  the  feather,  and  that  in 
proportion  as  its  base  elongates,  its  extremity  dies  and  becomes 
dry,  the  moment  it  has  formed  the  corresponding  portion  of  this 
appendix.  Each  one  of  these  little  apparatuses  is  composed  of 
a  cylindrical  sheath,  lined  internally  by  two  coats  or  tunics,  united 
by  oblique  partitions,  and  a  central  bulb.  The  substance  of  the 
feather  is  deposited  on  the  bulb,  and  to  form  the  beards,  it  is 
moulded  in  some  way,  in  the  spaces  that  the  little  partitions,  we 
have  just  mentioned,  leave  between  them  ;  in  the  portion  corres- 
ponding to  the  stalk,  the  bulb  is  in  relation  with  the  internal  surface 
of  the  stalk,  and  after  having  there  deposited  a  spongy  substance 
it  dries  and  perishes :  but  at  the  part  where  the  stalk  or  trunk  of 
the  feather  is  tubular,  the  lamina  of  horny  matter  which  this  secre- 
ting organ  deposites,  is  shaped  or  moulded  around  itself  and  is 
completely  enveloped  in  it;  nevertheless,  the  bulb,  after  it  has 
discharged  its  functions,  dries,  and  forms,  in  perishing,  a  series  of 
membranous  cones,  lodged  one  in  the  other  like  a  nest  of  boxes, 
which  fill  the  interior  of  the  tube,  and  are  called  the  soul  of  the 
feather,  or  quill. 

lo".  The  new  feather  is  at  first  enclosed  in  the  sheath  of  its 
capsule  which  frequently  projects  several  inches  beyond  the  skin, 
and  is  gradually  destroyed  ;  the  feather  then  appears  naked,  and 
its  beards  display  themselves  laterally;  the  extremity  of  its 

15.  What  are  the  uses  of  the  feathers  ?     How  are  they  formed  ? 

16.  Do  birds  shed  their  feathers  ? 

2 


16  FEATHERS. 


tube  remains  bedded  in  the  skin,  bat  is  generally  detached  with- 
out difficulty,  and  at  a  certain  period  falls  to  give  place  to  a  new 
feather.  This  renewing  of  the  feathers,  which  is  called  moulting, 
occurs,  in  general,  every  year  after  the  season  of  laying,  and 
sometimes  it  takes  place  twice  in  the  year,  in  the  spring  and  the 
autumn  ;  it  happens  earlier  in  the  old  than  in  the  young,  and  is 
a  period  of  indisposition  during  which  the  bird  usually  loses  its 
voice. 

1 7.  The  form  of  these  tegumentary  appendages  varies  much ; 
some  are  destitute  of  beards  and  resemble  the  spines  of  the  por- 
cupine ;    others  have  stiff  beards  which  are  armed  with  smaller 
beards  which  hook  into  each  other,  so  as  to  form  a  great  tissue  or 
coat,  which  the  air  does  not  penetrate ;  others  again  have  the 
beards  and  the  smaller  beards  (barbs  and  barbules)  long,  flexible, 
and  not  hooked  into  each  other,  which  renders  them  extremely 
soft  and  light ;  and  there  are  some  which  resemble  simple  down. 
Their  colours  are  infinitely  varied  and  often  surpass  the  most 
beautiful  flowers  or  the  most  brilliant  gems  in  beauty  and  splen- 
dour. Generally,  the  plumage  of  the  female  is  not  so  rich  as  that 
of  the  male,  and  it  is  rare  for  the  young  bird  to  be  clothed  in  the 
same  colours  that  it  will  wear  all  its  life ;  they  often  change  two 
or  three  years  afterwards,  and  sometimes  the  adult  wears    a 
plumage  in  the  spring,  altogether  different  from  that  of  winter.] 

18.  The  large  stiff  feathers  that  grow  on  the  anterior  extremi- 
ties of  birds,  which  are  called  wing  feathers,  or  pinion   feathers, 
expand  these  organs  very  considerably  without  increasing  their 
weight,  and  convert  them  into  powerful  oars  destined  to  cleave  the 
airland  strike  against  it  with  so  much  force  and  frequency,  that 
the  shock  thus  produced  impels  the  body  of  the  animal  in  a  con- 
trary direction.     The  ability  of  the  bird  to  sustain  itself  in  the 
air,  and  move  with  rapidity,  is  in  proportion  to  the  expanse  of  the 
wings.     The  feathers  which  contribute  most  to  the   extent  of 
the  wings,  and  that  are  most  useful  in  flight,  are  those  which  are 
attached  to  the  hand,  and,  consequently,  most  distant   from   the 
body  ;  they  are  always  ten  in  number,  and   are  called   primary 
remiyes;  the  feathers  of  the  fore-arm  are  called  secondary  renrigcs; 
the  scapu/ary,  which  are  the  least  in  strength,  are  attached  to  the 
humerus;  the  bos' ard  feathers  are  those  that  grow  from  the  thumb, 
and  the  coverts,  those  feathers  which  cover  the  base  of  the  remiges. 

17.  Whether  does  the  male  or  female  bird  possess  the  most  brilliant  colours  ? 
Are  the  colours  of  all  birds  the  same  throughout  the  year  ? 

18.  What  are  the  primary  remiges?     What  is  their  number?     What  are 
the   secondary  remiges?     What   are   the   scapulary  feathers?     What  are 
bastard  feathers  or  quills  ? 


LOCOMOTION.  17 


[  Every  time  a  bird  wishes  to  strike  the  air,  he  first  raises  the 
humerus  with  the  wing  still  folded;  next  he  expands  the  wing 
extending  the  fore-arm  and  hand,  and  then  suddenly  depresses  it ; 
the  air  which  resists  this  movement  now  affords  him  a  point  of 
support,  upon  which  he  rises:  he  launches  himself  forward  like 
a  projectile,  and  the  moment  an  impulse  is  given  to  his  body,  he 
folds  the  wing  to  diminish  as  much  as  possible  the  new  resistance 
which  the  ambient  air  opposes  to  his  course.  This  resistance, 
and  the  attraction  of  gravitation,  (which  tends  to  cause  all  bodies 
to  fall  towards  the  centre  of  the  earth,)  gradually  diminish  the 
swiftness  the  bird  has  acquired  by  this  blow  or  stroke  upon  the 
air,  and  if  he  made  no  new  movement,  he  must  soon  descend, 
but  if,  before  losing  the  swiftness  acquired  by  the  first  blow  of 
the  wing,  he  gives  a  second,  he  will  add  a  new  impulse  to  that 
which  he  had  already,  and  gain  an  accelerated  movement, 
Such  is,  in  fact,  the  mechanism  of  flight. 

While  the  bird  is  thus  suspended  in  the  air,  the  whole  weight 
of  his  body  is  supported  by  his  wings,  and  to  enable  him  to 
preserve  his  equilibrium  in  this  position,  the  centre  of  gravity 
must  be  placed  very  nearly  beneath  the  shoulders  and  as  low  as 
possible ;  it  is  for  this  reason  that,  while  flying,  he  generally 
carries  his  head  in  advance  by  stretching  out  the  neck,  and  that  the 
body,  instead  of  being  elongated,  like  that  of  mammals,  is  always 
gathered  up  and  oval.  In  this  necessity  for  lowering,  as  much  as 
possible,  this  centre  of  gravity,  we  also  find  the  reason  for  a 
peculiarity  of  structure,  which  at  first  sight  appears  singular; 
the  principal  elevating  muscles  of  the  wings,  instead  of  being 
placed  upon  the  back,  as  is  ordinarily  the  case  in  other  animals, 
are  found  upon  the  chest  with  the  depressors,  and  they  produce 
an  effect  opposite  to  the  latter,  because  their  tendons  pass  over 
a  sort  of  pulley  before  reaching  the  humerus ;  this  arrangement 
is  injurious  to  their  action,  but  it  has  the  advantage  of  accumu- 
lating, at  the  most  depending  part  of  the  thorax,  all  the  most 
weighty  organs  of  the  body,  and,  consequently  of  lowering  thus 
far  the  centre  of  gravity. — (See,  First  Book  of  Natural  History, 
Page  92.) 

It  is  evident  that  the  resistance  of  the  air  is  in  proportion  to 
the  mass  of  this  fluid,  struck  at  one  time  by  the  wings,  and  con- 
sequently, that  the  greater  the  surface  of  the  wings,  alJ  things  be- 
ing equal,  the  greater  will  be  the  swiftness  acquired  by  depressing 
these  oars ;  hence  it  follows,  that  birds  with  long  wings  are  not 
only  able  to  fly  with  greater  rapidity,  than  birds  with  short  wings, 
but  they  are  also  able  to  support  themselves  for  a  longer  time  in 
the  air,  because  they  are  not  obliged  to  repeat  the  movements  of 


18  LOCOMOTION. 


these  organs  so  frequently,  and  therefore  do  not  become  so 
readily  fatigued :  and,  in  fact,  all  birds  remarkable  for  rapid 
and  long  sustained  flight  have  large  wings,  while  those  that  have 
short  or  moderate  wings,  compared  with  the  volume  of  their 
body,  fly  less  swiftly  and  require  rest  more  frequently. 

To  rise  vertically,  it  is  necessary  that  the  wings  of  the  bird 
should  be  entirely  horizontal,  but  this  is  not  ordinarily  the  case; 
in  general  they  are  inclined  from  front  to  rear  so  as  to  impart  to 
the  animal  an  obliquely  ascending  movement;  sometimes  even 
this  inclination  is  such,  that,  to  mount  nearly  vertically,  into  the 
atmosphere,  the  bird  is  obliged  to  fly  against  the  wind.  The 
length  of  the  remiges  influences  the  facility  with  which  he  can 
rise  in  a  calm  air;  birds  that  have  the  anterior  remiges  longest, 
and  most  resisting  at  their  extremity,  fly  more  obliquely,  than 
those  in  which  the  wings  are  truncated  at  the  end.] 

19.  The  feathers  of  the  tail  also  assist  in  flight,  but  in  a  dif- 
ferent way ;  the  bird  makes  use  of  them  as  a  rudder  to  direct 
its  course.  The  number  of  the  feathers  which  perform  this 
office  is  ordinarily  twelve,  and  they  are  called  rectrices,  and  the 
name  of  coverts  of  the  tail,  is  given  to  those  feathers  which 
cover  their  base. 

[We  have  seen  that,  during  flight,  the  centre  of  gravity  of  the 
bird  should  be  near  the  shoulders ;  in  order  that  he  may  preserve 
his  balance  on  his  legs,  which  are  placed  near  the  posterior  part 
of  the  trunk,  these  organs  must  be  flexed  considerably  forward, 
and  the  toes  must  be  sufficiently  long,  to  be  in  advance  of 
the  point  where  the  vertical  line  should  fall  that  passes  through 
the  centre  of  gravity,  or  the  centre  of  gravity  must  be  carried 
behind,  so  as  to  be  above  the  base  of  support.  (See  hirst  Book  of 
Natural  History,  Paye  92.)  This  explains  the  utility  of  the  great 
flexion  of  the  thigh  and  the  obliquity  of  the  tarsus  on  the  'leg ; 
when  the  foot  is  large  and  the  neck  can  be  bent  so  as  to  carry 
the  head  behind,  the  equilibrium  is  thus  established  without,  the 
body  being  thrown  much  out  of  the  horizontal  position ;  but 
when  the  neck  is  short  and  toes  of  moderate  length,  the  animal  is 
obliged,  while  standing  or  walking,  to  assume  an  almost  vertical 
position.  It  is  for  the  purpose  of  more  easily  preserving  their 
equilibrium,  that  birds  generally  place  their  heads  under  their 
wing,  while  they  sleep,  perched  on  one  leg.  In  most  of  these 
animals  this  position  is  rendered  singularly  commodious  by  a 
peculiarity  in  the  structure  of  the  knee  ;  in  man  and  most  ani- 
mals, the  extremities  bend  under  the  weight  of  the  body  the 

19.  How  do  the  feathers  ot  the  tail  assist  in  flight  ?  What  are  the 
rectrices  ?  What  is  their  number  ? 


THE  SENSES— BRAIN.— VOICE.  19 

moment  their  extensor  muscles  cease  to  contract,  and  it  is  the 
continued  contraction  of  these  organs  that  renders  standing  so 
fatiguing  ;  but  in  the  stork  and  other  birds  with  long  legs,  it  is 
otherwise ;  the  lower  extremity  of  the  femur  has  a  hollow  or 
excavation  which,  during  the  extension  of  the  limb,  receives  a 
projection  of  the  tibia,  which  cannot  escape  from  it  without  a 
muscular  effort ;  the  leg  once  in  position,  it  remains  extended, 
without  the  animal  having  any  necessity  to  contract  his  muscles, 
and  without  his  experiencing  any  fatigue. 

20.  The  sense  of  touch  in  birds  is  necessarily  dull,  on  account 
of  the  nature  of  their   integuments.     The  sense  of  taste   also 
appears  to  be  obtuse  in  most  of  these  animals  :  and  in  (act,  their 
tongue  is  almost  always  hard  and  horny.     In  general,  the  same 
is  true  in  respect  to  the  sense  of  smell ;  sometimes,  however,  this 
sense  appears  to  be  very  delicate ;  for  we  observe  that  birds  of 
prey  direct  themselves  by  the  odour  alone  to  carrion,   placed  at 
too  great  a  distance  for  them  to  perceive  it,  notwithstanding  the 
great  perfection  of  their  sight. 

21.  Generally  this  last  sense  is  more  developed  in  birds  than  in 
all  other  animals.     There  is  found  at  the  back  part  of  the  eye   a 
plaited  membrane,  called  pecten  or  marsitpium,  which  projects 
from  the  retina  towards  the  crystalline  lens,  and  seems  to  be  of 
a  nervous  nature  ;  it  is  also  remarked  that  the  anterior   face  of 
the    ball  of  the  eye  is  strengthened  by  a  circle  of  bony  pieces, 
lodged  in  the  thickness  of  the  sclerotica,  and  besides   the   two 
ordinary  eyelids,  there  is  always,  at  the  external  angle  of  the  eye, 
a  third,  named  membrana  nictitam,  (winking  membrane,)  which 
may  be  drawn  over  the  front  of  this  organ  like  a  curtain. 

22.  Birds  have   not,   like  most   mammals,  an  external  ear; 
nocturnal  birds  only,  have  a  large  external   concha  or  pavilion, 
out  it  is  not  projecting;  and  the  opening  of  the  ear  is  generally 
concealed  by  feathers  with  fringed  beards. 

23.  The  brain  is  less  developed  in  birds  than   in   most  mam- 
mals,   and  differs  from  that  of  the   latter  in    some   important 
particulars,  which  we  cannot  enumerate  at  this  time, 

24.  Finally,  to  conclude   with  the    functions    of  relation,    we 
will  add,  that  in  birds  the  voice  is  chiefly  formed  in  the  inferior 
larynx,  which  is  situate  at  the  extremity  of  the  trachea,    where 
it  bifurcates  to  form  the  bronchia.  (Plate  2,  fig.  2.)     In  the  sing- 
ing birds  this   organ  is  very  complicated  in  its  structure ;  we 

20.  Why  is  the  sense  of  touch  dull  in  birds?     Why  is  the  sense   of  taste 
usually  obtuse?     Is  the  sense  of  smell  very  delicate? 

21.  In  what  particulars  do  the  eyes  of  birds  differ  from  tho^e  of  mammals? 

22.  How  does  the  organ  of  hearing  in  birds  differ  from  that  of  mammals  ? 

23.  How  does  the  brain  of  birds  differ  from  that  organ  in  other  animals  ? 

24.  Where  is  the  organ  of  voice  situated  in  birds? 


20 ORGANS  OF  DIGESTION. 

observe  elastic  membranes  stretched  in  its  interior  and  a  great 
number  of  muscles,  designed  to  move  the  solid  pieces  that  com- 
pose it;  but  in  those  birds  that  do  not  modulate  sounds,  its 
structure  is  much  more  simple. 

25.  The  organs  destined  to  perform  the  various  functions  of 
nutrition  are  nearly  the  same  as  those  in  the  mammalia. 

26.  The  apparatus  of  digestion  in  the  class  of  birds  presents 
the  greatest  uniformity  of  structure :  the  most   remarkable   part 
of  it  is  the  existence  of  three  stomachs.     Teeth  are  never  found 
in  these  animals ;  their  aliments  which  are  taken  hold  of  by  the 
beak,  are  generally  swallowed  without  being  divided ;  and   do 
not  sojourn  or  pause  in  the  mouth,  as  is  the  case  in   mammals ; 
they  have  no  veil  of  the  palate  (yefum  pa!ati,)  to  close  this  cavity 
behind  during  mastication.  (8ee9  First  Book  of  Natural  History.) 
The  form  of  the  beak  varies  much,  and  is  always  in  relation  to 
the  nature  of  the  food  made  use  of  by  the  bird ;  for  this  reason 
it  affords  excellent   marks  or  characters  for  the  classification  of 
these  animals.     Sometimes  the  upper  mandible  is  hooked  and 
fitted  for  tearing  flesh,  at  others  the  beak  is  short,  straight  and 
stout,  suited  to  breaking  grains ;  at  other  times  again  it  is   wide 
and  very  open,  to  enable  the  bird  to  seize  easily  in  its  flight,  those 
insects  upon  which  it  is  destined  to  feed. 

27.  The  tongue  is  slightly  fleshy,   and  covered  with  horny 
papillae  which  serve  to  retain  the  food  after   it  has  entered  the 
mouth.  The  os  hyoides  (hyoid  bone)  which  supports  this  organ, 
is   very  much  elongated,   and  terminates  in  two  long  delicate 
horns  which  curve  round  the  posterior  and  superior  part  of  the 
head,  their  length  depending  on  the  extensibility  of  the  tongue, 
(Plate  I,  fig.  3,  and  Plate  2,  fig.  3.) 

28.  The  salivary  glands  are  less  numerous  than  in  the  mam- 
malia ;  all  are  placed  beneath  the  tongue,  and  are  formed  of  small 
round   grains,   or  granules.     Generally  the  saliva  is  thick  and 
viscid. 

29.  The  oesophagus,  ( Plate  2,  fig.  4.)  descends  along  the  neck, 
and  generally  presents,  at  its  inferior  part,  a  considerable  dilata- 
tion called  the  crop  or  ingluvics :  this  pouch   constitutes   a   first 
stomach  which  projects  above  the  clavicles ;  it  is  very  large  in 
granivorous  birds  and  is  met  with  in  the  Rapaces  or  birds  of  prey, 
but  is  wanting  in  the  Ostrich,  and  in  most  piscivorous  birds,  and 
particularly  those  of  the  order  of  Grallatoriae. 

25.  Are  the  organs  of  nutrition  in  birds  the  same  as  in  mammals  ? 

26.  In  what  particulars  does  the  apparatus  of  digestion  differ  from  that  of 
mammals  ? 

27.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  tongue  in  birds  ? 

28.  Have  birds  salivary  glands?  What  is  the  character  of  the  saliva  of  birds  ? 

29.  What  is  the  crop  or  ingluvies  ?    Is  a  crop  found  in  all  birds  ? 


ORGANS  OF  DIGESTION. 21 

30.  Below  the  crop,  the  oesophagus  becomes  narrow  and  enters 
the  thorax.  Soon  after  entering  the  thorax  it  again  dilates  to 
form  the  second  stomach,  called  prouentriculus,  or  bulbus  glandu~ 
losits.  This  cavity  is  remarkable  for  the  great  number  of  follicles 
which  are  lodged  in  the  thickness  of  its  parietes,  and  which  secrete 
an  acid  liquid  (the  gastric  juice)  designed  to  effect  digestion.  This 
ventricJe  is  much  larger,  and  more  numerously  supplied  with 
glands,  in  those  birds  that  have  no  crop,  than  in  those  that  are 
provided  with  it.  Internally,  it  opens  into  a  third  stomach,  the 
gizzard,  which  is  of  a  globular  form,  and  varies  in  structure  ac- 
cording to  the  diet  or  food  of  these  animals.  In  granivorous 
birds  its  muscular  parietes  are  very  thick  and  strong,  and  it  is 
lined  inside  by  a  kind  of  thick,  hard  epidermis  which  resembles 
horn  ;  in  diurnal  birds  of  prey,  on  the  contrary,  it  is  very  thin, 
and  in  some  aquatic  birds,  such  as  Herons  and  Pelicans,  it  forms 
but  a  single  sack  with  the  second  stomach. 

31.  The  intestines  of  birds  are  not  so  long,  generally,  as  those 
of  the  mammalia ;  in  most  of  these  animals  they  are  only  two 
or  three  times  the  length  of  the  body.  The  intestinal  canal  is 
divided  into  two  portions,  namely,  the  small  and  the  large  intes- 
tine, and  near  the  anus,  it  has  two  appendices,  terminating  in  cul- 
de-sacs,  called  coecums. 

32!  The  small  intestine  communicates  with  the  gizzard  by  the 
opening  of  the  pylorus,  which  is  situate  very  near  the  cardia, 
and  is  without  valves.  The  bile  is  poured  into  this  intestine  by 
two  ducts,  which  alternate  with  two  or  three  canals,  through 
which  passes  the  pancreatic  juice. 

33.  The  secreting  organ  of  the  bile,  the  liver,  is  generally  more 
voluminous  than  in  mammals,  and  is  divided  into   two  nearly 
equal  lobes.     The  gall-bladder  is  ordinarily  large,  but  in   some 
birds,  such  as  the  Parrot,  it  is  entirely  wanting. 

34.  The  pancreas  are  also  large,  and  are  found   in  the  first 
fold  formed  by  the  intestine. 

35.  The  coecums  vary  much  in  length  ;  in  the  granivorous,  and 
omnivorous  birds,  they  are  generally  thick  and  long;  they  are 
wanting  in  most  of  the  diurnal  birds  of  prey,  but  in  the  nocturnal 
birds  of  prey,  they  are,  on  the  contrary,  very  large. 

30.  What  constitutes  the  second  stomach  or  ventricle  in  birds  ?     What  is 
the  gizzard  ?     Are  the  gizzards  of  all  birds  alike  1 

31.  What  is  the  length  of  the  intestinal  canal  in  birds  ?  How  is  it  divided  ? 

32.  How  does  the  bile  enter  the  small  intestine  ? 

33.  Is  the  gall  bladder  found  in  all  birds  ? 

34.  Where  are  the  pancreas  situated  ? 

35.  Are  the  ccecums  generally  of  the  same  size  ?  Are  they  always  present 
in  birds? 


22 CIRCULATION.— RESPIRATION. 

36.  The  large  intestine  is  very  short,  and   terminates  by   a 
dilatation  called  cloaca,  which  receives  the  urine  as  well  as  the 
eggs. 

37.  The  chyle,  derived  from  the  digestion  of  food,  is  absorbed 
by  the  chyliferous  vessels,  which  unite  with  the  lymphatic  vessels 
of  the  extremities  to  form  two  thoracic  ducts,  which   mount  in 
front  of  the  vertebral  column,  and  empty  into  the  jugular  veins, 
near  the  heart. 

38.  The  blood  of  birds  does  not  contain  circular  globules  like 
that  of  mammals,  but  oval  globules  like  those  contained  in   the 
Dlood   of   reptiles   and   fishes.     These  solid  particles  are  more 
abundant  in  birds  than  in  other  vertebrate  animals,  and  the  tem- 
perature of  this  liquid  is  higher  than  in  the  mammalia,  which  are 
nevertheless,  warm  blooded  animals, 

39.  The  circulation  is  carried  on  in  the  same  manner  as   in 
the  mammalia ;  it  is  double  and  complete,  that  is,  before  reach- 
ing the  point  from  which  it  departed,   the  blood  passes  through 
two  systems  of  capillary  vessels,  and  all  the  venous  blood  is 
changed  into  arterial  blood. 

40.  The  heart  has  four  cavities,  namely :  one   ventricle  and 
one  auricle  placed  on  the  left,  and  the  same  on  the   right  side. 
The  blood  is  forced  by  the  left  ventricle  into  the  aorta,  which  dis- 
tributes it  to  the  capillary  vessels  of  all  parts  of  the  body.     This 
liquid  then  returns  to  the  heart  through  the  veins,  and  enters  the 
right   auricle,   which  forces  it  into  the  right  ventricle  which  is 
situate  beneath  it;  this  last   cavity,  by  contracting,  sends  the 
blood  to   the  lungs,  through  the  pulmonary  artery ;  from  the 
pulmonary  artery  the  blood  passes  into  the  capillary  vessels   of 
the  lungs,  where  it  is  changed  into  arterial  blood ;  then  it  enters 
the  pulmonary  veins,  and  passing  through  them,  reaches  the  left 
auricle ;  finally,  the  left  auricle  pours  it  into  the  left  ventricle, 
whence  we  have  just  seen  it  go  forth  to  be  distributed  to  all  the 
organs. 

41.  Birds  are  distinguished  from  all  other  vertebrate  animals 
by  their  mode  of  respiration,  which  is  aerial,  as  it  is  in  the  mam- 
malia and  reptiles ;  and  it  takes  place  not  only  in  the  lungs,  but 
also  in  the  substance  of  all  the  other  organs.  In  the  mammalia 

36.  What  is  the  cloaca  ? 

37.  What  becomes  of  the  chyle  formed  by  the  process  of  digestion? 

38.  What  is  remarkable  about  the  globules  in  the  blood  of  birds  ? 

39.  What  is  the  character  of  the  circulation  in  birds? 

40.  What  route  is  taken  by  the  blood  in  completing  its  circuit  through  the 
body? 

41.  What  are  the  peculiarities  of  respiration  in  birds?     In  what  respect 
do  the  lungs  of  birds  differ  from  the  same  organs  in  mammals  ? 


HABITS  OF  BIRDS.  23 


and  in  reptiles,  the  bronchiae  terminate  in  little  cells,  which  all  end 
in  a  cul-de-sac,  and  the  air  that  enters  the  lungs  cannot  pass  be- 
yond them,  while  in  birds,  the  bronchiae  and  pulmonary  cells 
communicate  with  the  great  cavities,  and  this  fluid,  in  this  manner, 
penetrates  to  all  parts  of  the  body,  even  into  the  interior  of  the 
bones  and  feathers.  (Plate  2,  fig.  I.)  These  cavities,  by  means 
of  which  the  air  is  distributed  to  the  different  parts  of  the  body, 
are  formed  of  very  thin  lamina  of  cellular  tissue,  and  are  desig- 
nated under  the  name  of  aerial  pouches. 

42.  Consequently,  the  blood  comes  in  contact  with  the  air  in 
passing  through  the  capillary  vessels  of  all  the  organs,  as  well  as 
in  passing  through  the  capillary  vessels  of  the  lungs,  and  we 
might  say  that  the  respiration  of  these  animals,  as  well  as  their 
circulation,  is  double.   A  bird  consumes,  proportionably,  more  air 
than  any  other  animal,  and  perishes  more  rapidly  when  its  respi- 
ration is  interrupted. 

43.  The  cavity  of  the  thorax,  which  contains  the  heart  and 
lungs,  is  not  separated  from  the  abdomen  by  a  complete  muscular 
partition,  as  in  the  mammalia ;  the  diaphragm   is   rudimentary, 
and   only   occupies   the  sides  of  the  body ;  but  the  lungs  are 
adherent  to  the  ribs,  so  that  they  are  forced  to  dilate  when  these 
bones  separate  from  each  other;  therefore,  the  movements  of  in- 
spiration and  expiration  are  performed  nearly  in  the  same  manner 
as  in  the  mammalia, 


LESSON    II. 

Eggs, — Incubation — Nests. — Migration. — Classification. 

Habits  of  Birds. 

1.  Birds,  like  reptiles,  fishes,  and  most  of  the   invertebrate 
animals,  (that  is,  without  vertebrae,)  are  oviparous,  that  is,  they 
lay  eggs  from  which  their  young  are  hatched. 

2.  The  Eyg  is  first  formed  in  an  organ,  named  ovary,  and 
descends  (Plate  2.  fig.  4.)  from  it,  through  a  long  tube  called 
oviduct:  it  consists  at  first  of  a  membranous  sack  filled  with 
yellow  matter,  and  is  not  surrounded  with  the  white  till  it  reaches 
the  oviduct,  where  it  receives  a  more  solid  envelope  which  be- 
comes encrusted  with  a  calcareous  matter  that  constitutes  the 

42.  What  are  the  consequences  of  the   peculiarity  of  the    respiratory  ap- 
paratus  ? 

43.  What  is  the  character  of  the  diaphragm  in  birds  ? 

1.  Why  are  birds  said  to  be  oviparous  ? 

2.  How  are  eggs  formed  ? 


24 INCUBATION.-  IS  IDIFICATION. 

shell.  Upon  the  membrane  of  the  yolk,  or  yellow  matter,  we 
perceive  a  whitish  point,  which,  in  the  course  of  its  developement, 
becomes  the  young  animal,  for  the  nourishment  or  protection  of 
which,  all  the  other  parts  of  the  egg  are  destined. 

3.  In  order  that  the  young  bird  may  be  developed  in  the  in- 
terior of  the  egg,  it  must  be  maintained  at  a   certain   degree   of 
heat ;  in  very  warm  countries,  the  heat  of  the  sun  is  sometimes 
sufficient  to  bring  about  this  phenomenon,  and  there,  certain  birds 
abandon  their  eggs ;  but  in  most  cases  it  is  altogether    different, 
and  both  parents  or  the  mother  alone,  maintain   the   necessary 
heat  by  sitting  on  them. 

4.  The  duration  of  incubation,  (or  the  time  required  by  the 
young  bird  to  become  developed  in  the  interior  of  the  egg)  varies 
in  different  species,  but  it  is  the  same  in  all   birds  of  the  same 
species ;  it  is  from  forty  to  forty- five  days  for  Swans,  twenty-five 
days  for   Ducks,   twenty-one   days  for   Hens,  from   twelve    to 
fifteen    days   for   domesticated  Canary  birds,  and  only  twelve 
days  for  the  Humming-bird. 

5.  Almost  all  birds  construct  a  nest,  to  receive  their  eggs   and 
to  serve  as  a  dwelling   for  their  young,  which,  during  the  early 
period  of  life,  are  unprovided  with  feathers,  extremely  delicate,  and 
incapable  of  moving,  and  of  feeding  themselves.     Generally  there 
is  displayed  in  these  structures  an   art,  an  adroitness,   and   an 
elegance  which  excite  our  admiration  ;  and   one  thing  not  less 
surprising  is  the  regularity  with  which  all  the  successive  genera- 
tions perform  the  same  tasks,  and  build  nests  exactly  alike,  even 
under  circumstances  which  prevent  these  animals   from  seeing 
and  taking  lessons  from  their  parents ;  a  wonderful  instinct  guides 
them,  and  induces  them  to  take  many  precautions,  all  the   utility 
of  which  they  cannot  anticipate,  or  appreciate  before  hand. 

6.  The  form,  arrangement,  and  placing  of  the   nest,   vary  for 
almost  every  species  of  bird.     That  which  is  constructed  by  the 
largest  birds  of  prey  rests  upon  a  flat  surface  afforded  by  some 
part  of  a  rock,  or  on  the  platform  of  some  tall  tower ;  its  extent 
is  very  considerable,  and  every  year  contributes  to  its  increase, 
for  it  is  rare  for  these  birds  to  abandon  their  first  monument  of 
maternal  tenderness ;  those  that  leave  it,  return    periodically   to 
lay  their  eggs.     This  nest  is  frequently  composed  of  such  stout 

3.  What  circumstance  is  necessary  to  the  developement  of  the  egg? 

4.  Is  the  same  period  of  time  required  by  all  birds  for  incubation  ? 

5.  What  means  are  provided  for  the  reception  of  the  eggs,  and  of  the  young- 
birds  which  escape  from  them  ? 

6.  Are  the  nests  of  all  birds  alike  in  their  structure  ?     What  is  the  struc- 
ture of  the  nests  of  birds  of  prey  ? 


NIDIFICATION.  25 


pieces  of  wood,  that  one  would  scarcely  believe  they  could  be 
carried  by  a  bird,  if  he  were  not  aware  of  the  extraordinary 
strength  of  their  muscles ;  they  are  so  arranged  as  not  to  yield 
readily  to  the  force  of  the  wind,  and  they  support  boughs  which 
are  bound  to  each  other  by  the  remains  of  food  and  of  excre- 
ment, forming  a  solid  habitation  bearing  the  name  of  eyry. 
Those  species  that,  in  the  construction  of  their  nests,  only 
employ  rushes  and  reeds,  accumulate  them  in  such  quantities,  and 
fix  them  so  firmly  to  the  platform  that  rains  or  storms  seldom 
cause  their  destruction. 

7.  Most  birds  build  their  nests,  in  the  bifurcation  of  the  branches 
of  tre^s ;  in  this  case,  bits  of  straw  and  small  pieces   of  wood, 
carried  in  the  beak,  tied  and  interlaced  by  means  of  this,  organ, 
and  the  aid  of  the  foot,  constitute  the  external  frame,  which  sup- 
ports the  moss  and  down  that  form  the  bed.     Some  species  have 
the  habit  of  suspending  their  nest,  which  is  wrought   in   a   still 
more  artist-like  manner,  to  the  extremity  of  a   flexible  twig,  so 
that,  in  obedience  to  every  impulse  of  the    winds,  this   cradle 
and  the  sitting  bird  that  inhabits  it,  experience   an  almost  con- 
tinued rocking. 

8.  Certain  nests  present,  in  their  structure,  a  perfect  masonry 
made  of  little  sticks,  gravel,  or  small   leaves  impregnated  with 
mortar,  formed  of  earth  softened  with  the  salivary  humor  of  the 
bird,  or  simply  mixed  with  it.     How  much  toil  and  how  frequent 
must   be  the  goings  and  comings  for  the   completion   of  this 
work!     And,  when   we   remember  that  the  bird  has,  for  the 
execution  of  its  task,  but  a  single  instrument,  which  also  serves 
for  the  transportation  of  the  materials,  we  cannot   withhold  the 
admiration  which  is  so  justly  merited.    The  form  of  these  mortar- 
built  nests,  is  ordinarily  either  spherical,  conical,  or  elliptical ;  they 
are  established  in  the  angles  of  windows,  of  chimnies,  of  walls, 
and  often  on  the  tables  of  sheltered  rocks.     They  are  either 
isolated  or  placed  one  against  the  other ;  the  entrance  is  made 
either  on  the  top,  or  in  one  side,  and  sometimes  in  the  lower  part. 
Frequently  we  find  in  these  structures   several  compartments ; 
sometimes  a  sort  of  vestibule  is  separated  from  the  true  nest,  by  a 
partition,  and  it  is  into  this  apartment  that  the  male  retires,  after 
he  has  carried  the  necessary  food  to  his  sitting  female  companion. 

7.  What  is  the  situation  usually  selected  by  the  majority  of  birds  for  build- 
ing their  nests  ? 

8.  What  instruments  are  used  by  birds  in  the  construction  of  their  nests? 
What  is  the  form  of  those  nests  that  are  put  together,  like  mason  work,  with 
a  species  of  mortar  ?     Do  nests  ever  contain  more  than  one  apartment  ? 


26 INCUBATION.— MIGRATION. 

9.  There  are  also  birds  that  build  their  nests  upon  the  ground, 
and  in  order  to  guard  against  their  being  submerged  by  heavy 
rains,  elevate  them  on  hillocks  of  earth  :  these  nests  are  con- 
structed with  less  care  :  we  here  find  only  an  abundance  of  down, 
sustained  by  flexible  twigs,  suitably  interlaced;  finally,    some 
birds  are  content  to  form  an  excavation  in  the  earth  or  sand,  in 
which   they  deposite  their  eggs,   which   for  the  most  part  they 
assiduously  sit  upon,  but  which  they  sometimes  abandon  during 
the  day  to  the  heat  of  the  sun  ;  nevertheless,  in  this  latter  case, 
their   solicitude  induces  them  to  cover  their  eggs  with  a  light 
layer  of  sand  or  other  matter,  either  to  hide  them  from  animals 
that  seek  them  for  food,  or  to  protect  them  from  the  too  great 
intensity  of  the  sun's  rays. 

10.  The  constancy  of  birds  in  sitting  on  their  eggs  is  admira- 
ble :  sometimes  both  parents  divide  this  care  between  them  ;  at 
other  times  the  male  only  watches  the  nest  and  brings  food   to 
the  female,  while  she  remains  sitting  on  the  eggs ;  and  in  other 
species  again,  the  female  alone  is  charged  with   the  incubation. 
Generally,  the  mother  only  leaves  her  nest  for  a   few  moments 
when  pressed  by  hunger,  and  then  seemingly  with  regret ;  'and, 
in  most  cases,  after  her  young  have  appeared,  she  bestows  upon 
them,  and  for  a  long  time  after  their  birth,  the  most  tender  care 
and  attention.     She  covers  them  with  her  wings  to  protect  them 
from   the  cold,  brings  them  choice  food,  which  she  often  half 
digests,  and  then  disgorges  into  their  throat,  to  render  it  better 
suited   to   their  tender   stomach ;  she    guides  their  first  steps, 
teaches  them  to  use  their  wings,  and  when  threatened  by  danger, 
displays  as  much  courage  as  devotion  in  their  protection. 

1 1.  In  this  particular,  it  is  very  interesting  to  study  the  habits 
of  birds ;  but  this  is  not  the  most  remarkable  point  in  their  his- 
tory.    The  most  singular  phenomenon  in  the  lives  of  birds,  is 
unquestionably  the  habit,  which  certain  species  have,  of  making, 
at  appointed  periods  of  the  year,  long  journeys,  and  changing 
their  climate  according  to  the  seasons, 

12.  Birds  that  feed  on  insects,  early  leave  temperate  climates 
to  go  towards  the  south,  where  they  find  in  the  winter   a  more 
abundant  supply  of  food  ;  other  birds  change  their  country  to 
seek  a  place  more  propitious  for  their  young,  and  go  sometimes 

9.  Do  birds  always  build  their  nests  in  elevated  situations  ? 

10.  Does  the  male  bird  ever  assist  in  the  process  of  incubation  ?     In  what 
way  ?     Are  the  young  birds  able  to  feed  themselves  when  they  first  escape 
from  the  shell  ? 

1 1.  What  is  the  most  remarkable  circumstance  in  the  general  history  of 
birds? 

12.  What  are  the  reasons  which  induce  many  birds-to  migrate  ? 


MIGRATION.  27 


to  the  north  and  sometimes  to  the  south  to  lay  their  eggs ;  in 
others  again  this  migration  is  not  determined  by  any  appreciable 
cause. 

13.  Some  migratory  birds  perform  their  journeys  through  the 
air  alone  or  only  accompanied  by  their  females ;  but  the  number  is 
small  comparatively  to  those  that  travel  in  company.  We  admire 
in  the  latter  the  instinct  which  induces  them  to  assemble  at  a  cer- 
tain place,  ten  or  twelve  days  previous  to  the  time  of  departure, 
which  is  ordinarily  an  indication  of  a  change  of  weather ;  for  it 
is  remarked  that  birds  feel  the  influences  sufficiently  early  to  derive 
prognostics  of  the  change  of  temperature  from  their  deportment 
and  certain  habits.  During  the  whole  journey,  the  most  perfect 
order  prevails  throughout  the  whole  troop ;  to  be  convinced  of 
this  fact  we  have  only  to  observe  the  flight  of  some  large  species, 
such  as  geese.  The  conducting  of  the  troop  is  confided  to  a 
chief  placed  at  the  head  of  two  files,  more  or  less  separated  from 
each  other,  which  meet  at  a  point ;  the  chief  is  the  summit  or 
point  of  this  moving  angle,  and  opposes  the  first  resistance  of  the 
air,  clears  the  way,  and  the  whole  band  follows  him,  observing 
the  most  perfect  order.  As  the  efforts  of  the  chief  are  very 
violent,  and  as  he  cannot  support  them  during  the  whole  voyage, 
he  is  perceived,  when  overcome  by  fatigue,  to  yield  his  post  to 
his  next  neighbour,  and  fall  into  the  ranks  at  the  extremity  of 
one  or  other  of  the  files.  The  period  of  these  great  migrations 
is  fixed  by  nature  for  each  species  of  migratory  birds,  and  it  is 
remarked,  they  follow  the  same  route  every  year:  hence,  in 
certain  districts,  the  fowlers  or  bird-catchers,  count  upon  their 
passage  as  upon  a  revenue  of  rent  that  falls  due  every  quarter, 
and  calculate  in  advance  the  period,  and  the  chances.  Armed 
with  their  nets  and  all  the  apparatus  of  the  chase,  they  station 
themselves  in  the  gorges  and  valleys  over  which  the  flocks  pass, 
and  reach  their  several  points  a  few  minutes  before  their  arrival. 
These  bands  or  flocks  are  sometimes  so  numerous,  and  the  in- 
dividuals composing  them  are  so  close  together  that  they  might 
be  readily  mistaken  for  dense  clouds. 

14.  Certain  birds  always  lead  an  erratic  life,  and  seem  to  have 
no  country  :  these  are  the  most  powerful  on  the  wing ;  many 
seem  not  to  be  impeded  by  the  strongest  wind,  and  appear  to 
delight  in  the  midst  of  storms.  They  form  a  striking  contrast 
with  a  small  number  of  species,  less  favoured  by  nature,  which, 

13.  How  are  these  migrations  formed  ?     At  what  period  do  these  migra 
tions  take  place  ?     Are  these  periods  very  certain? 

14.  Do  all  birds  belong  to  some  one  or  other  country  ?  Are  all  birds  active 
inflight? 

3 


28  CLASSIFICATION. 


deprived  of  the  organs  of  flight,  and  possessing  a  slow  and 
embarrassed  gait,  are  condemned  never  to  leave  the  rock  on 
which  they  were  born  These  birds  exercise  their  patience  in 
awaiting  for  prey  that  is  brought  to  them  by  the  rolling  in  of  the 
waves ;  and  it  is  only  when  it  escapes  them,  and  they  become 
hard  pressed,  that  they  venture  into  shallow  depths  in  pursuit  of  it. 

15.  Birds  also  differ  very  much  from  each  other  in  their  diet 
or  food ;  some  seek  living  prey  only,  and  feed  exclusively  on 
the  produce  of  their  hunting  or  fishing;  sometimes  they  catch 
other  birds  of  prey  and  force  them  to  disgorge  the  food   which 
they  were  about  to  eat.     There  are  others  which,  with  appetites 
not  less  carneous,  but  wanting  in  the  strong  arms  and  courage  of 
the  first,  only  prey  upon  dead  bodies.     Others   live  exclusively 
on  worms  or  insects,  and  others  again,  eat  nothing  but  grains, 

Of  the  Classification  of  Birds. 

16.  Birds  differ  much  less  from  each  other  than  the  different 
mammals ;  except  some  modification  in   the   plumage,  in    the 
general  form  of  the  body,  in  the  disposition  of  the  beak,  and  in 
the  conformation  of  the  feet,  they  resemble  each  other  very  much  ; 
hence,  it  is  very  difficult  to  subdivide  the  class  which  they  form. 

17.  The  number  of  species  of  birds  known  by  naturalists  is 
about  five  thousand.     Their  classification,  like  that  of  mammals, 
is  founded  chiefly  upon  the  modifications  that   are   remarked  in 
the  organs  of  mastication  and  prehension,  or  of  locomotion,  that 
is,  the  beak  and  feet. 

18.  According  to  these  characters  they  are  divided  into  six 
ORDERS,  namely ;  Rapaces,  or  Birds  of  Prey  ;    Passerina,    or 
Migratory  Birds;  Scansoriae,  or  Climbing  Birds;   Gallinaceae; 
Grail  atoriae,  or  Waders;  and  Palmipedes,  or  Swimming  Birds. 

19.  The  principal  characters  by  which  these  groups   are   dis- 
tinguished from  each  other  may  be  seen  in  the  following  table. 

15.  Upon  what  substances  do  birds  feed  ? 

16.  What    renders    it   difficult   to  sub-divide  the   class    of    birds    into 
genera,  &c.? 

17.  Upon  what  is  the  classification  of  birds  founded? 

18.  Into  how  many  orders  is  the  class  of  birds  divided  ?     What  are   the 
names  of  these  orders? 

19.  (Answered  by  the  table.)     What  orders  compose  the   division   ef  ter- 
restrial birds  ?     What  are  the  dis'inguishing  characters  of  the  Accipilres  or 
Rapaces?     What  are  the  distinguishing  marks  of  the  Passerinffl?    By  what 
means  are  the  Scansoriae  distinguished  from  the  Passerinee?     What  are  the 
distinguishing  characters  of  the  Gallinaceae  ?     What   orders   compose  the 
division  of  Aquatic  birds?     How  are  the  GrallatorisB  distinguibhed ?.    How 
are  the  Palmipedes  recognised  ? 


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30  BIRDS  OF  PREY. 


LESSON    III. 

ORDER  OF  RAPACES,  (or  *flccipitres} — Zoological  Characters.- 
Habits.  —  Division  into  two  Families. 


FAMILY  OF  DIURISME. — Zoological  Characters  and  Habits  of  Vul- 
tures, (  Yellow  Vulture,  King  of  the  Vultures,  Condor,  Ptrc- 
nopteivs  of  Egypt. )  —  Griffins  —  Tribe  of  Falcons  —  Division 
into  tico  grou/tes,  noble  find  ignoble. —  Falconry,  (Common 
Falcon) — Eagles. — Fisher-  Eagles.  —  Sparrow-Hawks. — 'Kites 
—  Buzzards. — Harriers. —  Characters  and  Habits. 

FAMILY  OF  NOCTURNE. — Characters  and  Habits. — (Owl. — Strix. 
—Due.) 


OBDER    OF   RAPACES,    OR    ACCIPITRES. 

(Birds  of  Prey.} 

1.  Birds  of  Prey  are  recognised  by  their  beak,  being  hooked 
and  terminated  by  a  point  which  is  sharp  and  bent  downwards, 
and  by  their  feet  being  very  strong  and  armed  with  powerful, 
hooked  nails.     (ljlate  3,fg    I,  to  8.) 

2.  They  are  generally   remarkable  for  their    strength;   the 
muscles  of  their  thighs  and  legs  are  very  voluminous  and  give 
great  power  to  their  talons  ;  their  tarsi  are  rarely  elongated  :  all 
of  them  have  four  toes,  the  first  of  which,  or  thumb,  is  directed 
backwards ;  the  nails  of  this  toe,  and  of  the  internal  toe  are  the 
strongest,  and  there  is  often  a   very  small  palmate  membrane 
betwixt  the  bases  of  the  external  toes.     Their  wings  are  large, 
and  the  sternum,  which  affords  place  for  the  attachment  of  the 
principal  muscles  of  flight,  is  generally  very  much  developed  and 
without  lateral  notches. 

3.  It   is  also  to  be  remarked  that  their   nares   are  pierced 
through  a  membrane,  called  Cera,  that  covers  the  whole  base  of 
the  beak. 

4.  All  the  Rapaces  live  exclusively  on  flesh  ;    they    pursue 
other  birds  and  even   small   quadrupeds  and  reptiles:  they  are 
also  very  powerful  in  flight. 

1.  How  are  the  birds  of  prpy  characterised? 

2.  What  are  the  characters   of  the  legs  of  birds  of  prey  ?     What  is  the 
number  of  their  toes  ?     What  is  their  direction  ?     What  is  the  character  of 
the  sternum  ? 

3.  What  is  meant  by  the  cera  ? 

4.  On  what  do  the  Rapaces  feed  ? 


BIRDS  OF  PREY.  31 


5.  Like  the  Passerinae  and  Scansoriae,  birds  of  prey  are  born 
generally  naked,  with  the  eyes  closed,  and  cannot  live  without 
the  assistance  of  their  parents,  who,  during  their  tender  age, 
supply  all  their  wants. 

6.  These   birds   form  two  families:    the   Diurtioe,   and    the 
Nocturnes,  which  may  be  distinguished  by  means  of  the  follow- 
ing characters-: 

{Eyes  directed  from  the  side ;  the  head  and  neck 
well  proportioned  ;  the  external  toe    directed  for- 
ward,  and  almost  always  united  to  the  middle  toe 
by  a  small  membrane. 
RAPACES.  * 

C     Eyes  directed  forward ;  head   very    large    and 
.,.,*..  n«e.  1  neck  very  short;    external    toe   may  be   directed 
^either  forwards  or  backwards. 

FAMILY  OF  DAY  BIRDS  OF  PREY,  OR  DIURN^E. 

7.  The  Diurnae  have  their  eyes  directed  sidewise ;  the  head 
and  neck  are  well  proportioned ;  (Plate  3,  %.  1.  #c.)  the  nares 
are  pierced  through  a  naked  membrane,  called  cera,  which  covers 
the  base  of  the  beak;  they  have  three  toes  in  front  and  one  be- 
hind  without  feathers,   and  the  two  external  ones  are  almost 
always  united  at  their  base  by  a  short  membrane  ;  flight  power- 
ful ;  the  quills  strong ;  the  plumage  close ;  the  sternum  large  and 
completely  ossified,  and  the  fourchette  semi-circular,  and  widely 
separated ;  finally,  the  stomach  is  almost  entirely  membranous, 
and  the  intestines  of  small  extent. 

8.  The  family  of  Diurnae  is  divided  into  three  principal  tribes, 
easily  recognised  by  the  following  characters : 

(Tribes.) 

!A  more  or  less  consider-  ) 
able  part  of"  the  head  and  >  VULTURES. 
nec/destUute  of«ea,he,4 
Head  covered  with  fe 
„......_  thera- 

having  Eyes  surmounted  by  a  projecting  eyebrow  which  ) 

makes  them  appear  sunk  in  the  head ;  talons  very  >  FALCONS. 
strong.  \ 


5.  What  is  the  condition  of  birds  of  prey  at  the  time  of  birth  ? 

6.  Into  what  families  is  the  order  of  Rapaces  divided  ?     How    are   the 
Diurnae  characterised  ?     In  what  respects  do  the  Nocturnse  differ  from  the 
Diurnae? 

7.  How   are   the    Diurnos  distinguished  ?     On    finding    a    membranous 
stomach  and  intestines  of  small  extent  in  a  bird,  upon  what  would  you  infer 
that  it  habitually  fed  ? 

8.  Into   what  tribes  is  the  family  of  Diurnee    divided  ?     What  are   the 
characters  of  Vultures  ?     How  do  Griffins  differ  from  Vultures  ?    What  are 
the  characters  of  Falcons? 

3* 


32  VULTURES. 


Tribe  of  Vultures. 

9.  The  Vultures, —  Vultur,— are  recognised  by  the  nakedness 
of  a  portion  of  the  head  or  even  of  the  neck,  and  by  the  form  of 
their  beak  which  is  elongated  and  curved  only   at  the   end. 
(Hate  3,  fig.  4,  and  6.) 

10.  These  birds  have  a  disagreeable  aspect,  a  tainted  odour, 
and  their  habits  excite  disgust ;  they  are  cowardly,  and  feed  on 
the  most  putrid  carrion  rather  than  on  living  prey.     The  power 
of  their  talons  does  not  correspond  to  their  size,  and  they  make 
use  of  their  beak  rather  than  of  their  claws.     They  are  extremely 
voracious :  but  after  they  have  been  complely  satiated,  it  seems, 
they  can  wait  several  weeks  for  an  opportunity  of  feeding  again. 
After  they  have  eaten,  their  crop  forms  a  large  projection  above 
the  fourchette ;  they  become  dull  and  stupid,  and  a  sanguineous, 
foetid  humor  flows  from  the  nose.     The  sense  of  smell  in   these 
animals  is  very  fine,  and  enables  them  to  perceive  at  incredible 
distances,  the  remains  of  dead  bodies,  which  they  seek  for  food. 

11.  In  Peru,  Egypt,  and  some  countries  of  the  East,  they  are 
very  useful  to  man,  for  they  serve  to  cleanse  the  streets  of  animal 
remains  that  it  is  customary  to  throw  there,  and  they  may  be 
seen  promenading  many  towns,  in  small  bands,  and  watching  even 
in  the  houses  for  recent  or  putrid  dead  bodies. 

12.  Vultures  live,  generally,  in  pairs;   they  prefer    building 
their  nests  on  inaccessible  rocks,  and  construct  them  of  pieces 
of  wood,  joined   together  by  a  sort  of  mortar :  the  young  are 
covered  with  down  when  born,  and  are  fed  on  half  digested  food, 
which  is  disgorged  by  their  parents  before  them. 

13.  Their  wings  are  so  long,  that  when  they  walk,  they  keep 
them  half  extended,  and  they  often  experience  difficulty  in  taking 
to  flight  after  alighting  on  the  ground  ;  their  ascent  is  slow  but 
well  sustained,  and  is  always  effected  obliquely  and  by  constantly 
turning  about 

14.  The  tribe  of  Vultures  is  divided  into  four  genera,  namely:  the 
Vultures  properly  so  called,  the  Sarcoramphus,  the  Cathartes,  and 
the  Percnopterus,  which  are  distinguished  in  the  following  manner: 

9.  How  are  Vultures  recognised  ? 

10.  What  is  the  general  character  of  Vultures  ? 

1 1.  In  what  way  do  Vultures  make  themselves  useful  to  man  ? 

12.  What  is  the  condition  of  Vultures  when  first  born  ?     Upon    what  do 
they  feed  ? 

13.  Do  Vultures  rise  into  the  air  readily  from  the  ground? 

14.  How  is  the  tribe  of  Vultures  divided?     How    is    the  Sarcoramphus 
distinguished  from  the  Vulture  properly  so  called  ?     In  what   respect   does 
the  Cathartes  differ  from  those  two  genera  ?     How  does   the   Percnopierus 
differ  from  the  Cathartes  ? 


KING  OF  THE  VULTURES.— CONDOR.  33 


(Genera.) 

f    Without 

)           VULTURE 

f    Transverse  ; 

caruncles. 

£  PROPERLY   SO  CALLED. 

•x   f    Divested  of 

and  the  head 

\ 

t~  g       feathers,    as 

g  o         well  as  the 

1 

With 

I  caruncles. 

V       SARCORAMPHUS. 

g  "5  <[  the  head  ;  the 

1 

tl  t*  1           narea 

1    Lnncritudinal.  . 

J3   L  Almost  entirely  feathered, PERCNOPTERITS. 

15.  VULTURES  PROPERLY  so  CALLED,  are  distinguished  by  their 
naked  head  and  neck,  by  the  ruff  or  collar  of  feathers  that  sur- 
rounds the  base  of  the  neck,  by  their  stout,  strong  beak,  and  by 
the  disposition  of  their  nares.     (Plate  3,  fig.  6.)     They  have  no 
fleshy  excrescences  on  the  head,  and  they  belong  exclusively  to 
the  old  continent, 

16.  The  most  widely  diffused  species,  is  the  Yellow  or  Fulvous 
Vulture, —  Viilfur  fnlcus, — which    equals,    and  even   surpasses 
the  Swan  in  size ;  it  is  found  on  all  the  mountains  of  the  eastern 
continent. 

17.  The  SARCORAMPHUS  differs  from  the  Vulture   properly  so 
called  in  the  fleshy  caruncles  which  grow  above  the  base  of  the 
beak ;  it  inhabits  the  western  continent.     [The  genus  consists  of 
two  species.] 

18.  The  King  of  the  Vultures,— Vultur  papa, — is  a  species 
of  Sarcoramphus  of  the  size  of  the  goose,  which  inhabits  the 
warm  parts  of  South  America  ;  it  derives  its  name  from  the  fear 
with  which  it  inspires  another  species  of  Vulture  of  the   same 
country,  (the  Percnopterus  Urubu)  which  abandons  its  prey  and 
always  gives  place  to  him. 

19.  To  this  group  also  belongs  the  Condor,  or  great  Vulture 
of  the  Andes, —  Vultar  gryphus, — so  famous,  through  exagge- 
rated accounts,  for  its  size  and  strength.     It  is  not   much  more 
than  four  feet  long,  but  its  spread  wings  often  measure  more  than 
ten  feet ;  it  flies  higher  in.the  air  than  any  other  bird ;  it  inhabits 
the  most  elevated  of  the  Cordilleras  of  the  Andes,   and   never 
descends  to  the  plain  except  when  pressed  by  hunger.  [Condors 
are  frequently  seen,  on  the  shores  of  Chile  and  Peru,  feeding  on 
the  carcasses  of  whales  that  have  been  accidentally  thrown  upon 
the  beach,  or  left  by  whalemen.] 

15.  What  are  ihe  generic  characters  of  Vultures  properly  so  called  I 

16.  What  species  of  Vulture  is  most  common  ?     Where  is  it  found  ? 

17.  Where  is  the  Sarcoramphus  found  ? 

18.  From  what  circumstance  does  the  King  of  the  Vultures  derive  i's  name  ? 

19.  What  is  the  size  of  the  Condor  ?     Where  is  it  met  with  ?     What  are 
its  habits  ?     For  what  is  it  most  remarkable? 


34     CATHARTES.— TURKEY  BUZZARD.— PERCNOPTERU8. 

"Just  before  turning  off  from  the  beach,  we  came  to  the  recent 
carcass  of  a  mule,  upon  which  seven  large  Condors  and  a  crowd 
of  buzzards  were  feasting.  They  allowed  us  to  approach  so 
near  that,  had  we  been  provided  with  arms,  we  might  have  shot 
them  as  they  arose  slowly  on  the  wing.  These  birds  frequently 
destroy  small  animals,  They  sometimes  form  a  circle  around  a 
sheep,  or  a  goat,  and,  spreading  out  their  wings  approach  till  they 
strike  their  prey,  and  then  falling  upon  it,  devour  the  body,  even 
to  the  bones.  In  the  country  they  are  caught  in  the  following 
manner.  A  pen  is  formed  of  high  palisadoes  driven  into  the 
ground,  and  a  fresh  carcass  placed  in  the  centre.  It  is  left  alone. 
In  a  short  time,  the  Condors,  who  scent  their  food  for  many  miles, 
descend  into  it,  and  while  feasting,  the  peones,  (labouring  men  in 
Chile  are  so  called)  armed  with  clubs,  and  the  body  and  limbs 
well  protected  with  hide,  enter  the  enclosure  and  commence  the 
work  of  destruction.  These  birds  cannot  rise  without  running 
thirty  or  forty  yards,  which  the  limits  of  the  pen  will  not  allow, 
and  they  are  clubbed  to  death,  not  however,  without  making 
resistance,  and  occasionally  inflicting  very  severe  wounds  on 
their  pursuers." — Three  Years  in  the  Pacific. 

20.  The  CATHARTES,  which  have  no  caruncles  on  the  head, 
and  whose  nares  are  longitudinal  and  oval,  are  also  found  in 
America  ;  there  is  one  species  (Cathartes  Vulturinus,  also  called 
Vnltur  Calif  or  nianits,)  which  approaches  to  the  Condor  in  size, 
and  has  wings,  even  longer,  in  proportion.  The  tarsi  are  par- 
tially covered  by  the  feathers  of  the  legs.  It  inhabits  California. 

[The  Turkey  Buzzard,  or"  Gallinaza, —  Vultur  aura, — 
Cathartes  aura, — is  of  a  bluish  black  colour,  and  as  large  as 
a  cock.  It  is  common  in  warm  parts  of  the  United  States,  and 
is  occasionally  seen  as  far  north  as  New  Jersey.  It  feeds  upon 
carrion  and  filth,  but  never  attacks  living  animals,  except  when 
helpless  and  unable  to  defend  themselves.  This  bird  is  very 
common  in  Peruvian  towns,  where  it  acts  the  part  of  scavenger, 
and  is  for  this  reason  protected  by  law.] 

^21.  The  PERCNOPTERI,  (Plate  3,  fia.  4.)  which  are  distinguished 
from  all  the  preceding  by  their  feathered  neck  and  long,  slender 
beak,  are  of  moderate  size,  and  do  not  possess  nearly  so  much 
strength  as  the  other  Vultures;  but  they  attack  with  greater 
avidity  carrion  and  all  sorts  of  filth  which  attract  them  from  a 
distance ;  and  they  do  not  disdain  excrement  itself. 

22.  The  Percnopterus  of  Egypt,  (Pharaoh's  Bird,) — Vultur 
percnopteitts,  or  Vultur  leucocep/talus,  or  Vultur  fuscus^ — is  of 

20.  What  are  the  Cathartes?     Where  are  they  found  ? 

21.  How  are  the  Percnopteri  distinguished-?     What  are  their  habits  ? 

22.  What  is  Pharaoh's  bird  ?     Where  is  it  found  ?     What  are  its  habits  ? 


GRIFFINS.— FALCONS. 35 

the  size  of  a  crow :  it  is  very  common  in  the  warm  countries  of 
the  eastern  continent,  and  follows  the  caravans  through  the 
desert  to  devour  all  that  die.  The  ancient  Egyptians  respected 
it  on  account  of  the  services  it  rendered  the  country  by  removing 
dead  bodies :  it  is  often  seen  represented  on  their  monuments. 
Even  at  the  present  day  no  injury  is  offered  to  it,  and  there  are 
even  devout  mussulmans  who  bequeath  wherewith  to  support  a 
certain  number. 

23.  In  America  there  is  another  species  of  Percnopterus,    the 
Urubit, —  Vulturjota, — which  performs  the  same  services  there. 

Tribe  of  Griffins. 

24.  These  birds, —  Gypaetos,— (Plate  3,  fig.  3.)  have  the  head 
and  neck  almost  entirely  covered  with  feathers ;    the  beak  is 
strong,  straight,  hooked  at  the  end,  and  inflated   on  the  curve : 
the  nostrils  are  covered  by  stiff  bristles ;   there  is   a  pencil  of 
bristles  under  the  beak;  the  tarsi  are  short  and  feathered  to  the 
toes. 

25-.  In  their  conformation  and  habits,  they  very  closely  resem- 
ble the  Vultures.  Their  talons  are  proportionally  weak,  and  their 
wings  are  long  and  partly  separate  when  in  repose.  When  the 
crop  is  full  it  projects  at  the  lower  part  of  the  neck. 

26.  The  Lamb  Vultuie, —  Vidtur  barbarus. —  fr'alco    barbatus, 
— (The  Laemrrer-geyer) — which  the  Greeks  named   Phenc-,  and 
the  Latins  called  Ussifraya,  is  the  largest  of  the  birds  of  prey  of 
the  eastern  continent,  the  high  mountain  chains  of  which  it  in- 
habits: it  is  almost  as  large  as  the  Condor,  and   attacks   lambs, 
goats,  chamois,  and,  it  is  said,  even  sleeping  men.     Generally  it 
endeavours  to  force  animals  to  throw  themselves  from  precipitous 
rocks,  and  devours  them  after  they  have  been  killed  by  the  fall. 
His  mantle  is  black  with  a  white  line  in  the  middle  of  each  feather, 
and  all  beneath  the  body  as   well  as  the  neck  is   of  a  clear, 
brilliant,  yellow  colour. 

Tribe  of  Falcons. 

27 .  The  Diurnal  Rapaces  composing  this  tribe  have  the  head 
and  neck  covered  with  feathers,  like  the   preceding,  but  are  dis- 
tinguished from  them  by  their  projecting  eye-brows  which  make 

23.  What  is  the  Urubu  ? 

24.  How  are  the  Griffins  distinguished  ? 

25.  In  what  particulars  do  Griffins  resemble  Vultures  ? 

26.  What  is  the  Limb  Vulture  ?  Where  is  it  found  '(  What  are  its  habits? 

27.  How  is  the  tribe  of  Falcons  distinguished  from  other  tribes  of  Diurnal 
Rapaces  1 


36  FALCONS. 


the  eyes  appear  as  if  they  were  sunk  into  the  head,  and  give  to 
the  physiognomy  of  these  animals  an  aspect  altogether  different 
from  that  of  the  Vultures  and  Griffins,  (l^'ate  3,  fig  1,  7,  and  8.) 

28.  These  birds  have  a  lofty,  rapid,  and  sustained  flight;  their 
sense  of  sight,  which  is  more  extended  and  clearer  than  in  any 
other  animal,  enables  them  to  perceive  the  smallest   prey,  when 
they  themselves  are  so  high  as  to  be  out  of  the  reach  of  our  vision. 

29.  Most  of  them  feed  willingly  on  flesh  while  it  is  yet  palpi- 
tating; but  when  pressed  by  hunger,  they  do  not  refuse  dead 
bodies,  as  it  has  been  generally  believed,   and  instead  of  eating 
their  prey  on  the  spot  as  the  vultures  do,  they  bear  it  off  to  their 
eyry ;  the  largest  species  attack  mammals  and  birds,  others  live 
on  fishes,  some  feed  on  reptiles,  and  others  are  exclusively  in- 
sectivorous.    The  female  is  generally  a   third  larger  than  the 
male,  and  for  this  reason,  is  often  designated  under  the  name   of 
tarsel.     Moulting  takes  place  but  once  a  year,  and  age  induces 
such  great  change  in  the  plumage  of  these  birds,  that  naturalists 
have  frequently  mistaken  varieties  depending  on  this  cause  alone, 
for  distinct  species ;  the  young   are  generally  variegated   with 
spots  and  longitudinal  stripes,   while  the  old   ones   are    more 
uniform  in  colour,  and  are  rather  striped  transversely;  they  are 
not  clothed  in  their  last  or  permanent  livery  until   their  third, 
fourth,  or  even  sixth  year,  and  then  the  colours  of  their  plumage 
differ  according  to  the  sex. 

SO.  They  all  seize  their  prey  with  their  talons ;  some,  (such 
as  the  Falcon,  the  Kite,  &c  )  precipitate  themselves  perpendicu- 
larly upon  the  animals  they  wish  to  possess ;  others,  (the  Buz- 
zard and  Goshawks,  for  example)  approach  obliquely  and  attack 
sidewise  only.  They  are,  generally,  silent  and  very  difficult  to 
tame,  although  some  of  them  can  be  trained  to  hunt  on  the  wing. 

31.  This  tribe,  which  embraces  a  great  number  of  species,  is 
divided  into  two  principal  sections,  namely:  Noble  birds  of  Prey, 
and  Ignoble,  birds  of  Prey,  so  named,  because  the  former  are 
employed  in  falconry,  and  the  latter  are  not ;  and  each  one  of 
these  sections  is  sub-divided  in  its  turn,  as  may  be  seen  in  the 
following  table : 

28.  How  does  the  vision  of  Falcons  compare  with  that  of  other  animals  ? 

29.  Upon  what  do  the  Falcons  feed  ? 

30.  How  do  they  lay  hold  of  their  prey  ?    Are  Falcons  nuisy  biids  ?    Are 
they  easily  tamed  ? 

31.  How  is  the  tribe  of  Falcons  divided?     What  genera  form   the  Noble 
Birds  of  Prey  ?     What  is  the  chief  distinguishing  feature  of  the  Noble  birds 
of  Prey  ?    What  genera  belong  to  the  Ignoble  birds  of  Prey  ? 


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32.  In  the  DIVISION    OP   NOBLE   BIRDS    OF   PREY,  the  second 
quill  of  the  wing  is  the  longest,  and  only  exceeds  the  first  one  a 
very  little,  which  makes  their  wings  pointed,  and  influences  their 
manner  of  flight  very  much  ;  when  the  air  is  calm,  their  flight  is 
always  very  oblique,  and  to  rise  perpendicularly  they  have  to 
fly  against  the  wind. 

33.  FALCONS   PROPERLY   so  CALLED — Fulco, — are  recognised 
by  the  tooth  or  notching  with  which  the  upper  mandible  is  armed  • 
on  each  side,  wear  its  point,  and  by  their  wings  being  almost 
always  as  long  or  longer  than  their  tail.     In  proportion  to  their 
size  they  are  the  most  courageous  of  all  birds  of  prey  ;  a  quality 
which  corresponds  with  the  power  of  their  arms  and  the  strength 
of  their  wings.     They  are  also  the  most  docile   of  the  hunting 
birds,  and  the  most  important  in  the  art  of  falconry,  as  they  are 
taught  to  pursue  the  game,  and  return  when  they  are  called. 

34.  The  principal   species   of   this  genus   are;  the  Common 
Falcon, —  Falcu  commwiis, — which  is  of  the  size  of  a  hen,  and 
inhabits  all  the  northern  part  of  the  globe ;  the  Hohby, — Falco 
subbuteo, — the   Merlin, — Falco  ascalon,  and    the    Falco    /itlto~ 
falco, — which  inhabit  Europe,   and  when  young  resemble  the 
common  Falcon ;  the  Kestrels,  have  shorter  toes  and  their  flight 
is  not  so  rapid.     The  duration  of  the  life  of  the   Falcon  is  very 
great;  it  is  stated  that  in  the  year  1793,  a  person  caught,  at  the 
Cape  of  Good  Hope,  a  falcon  wearing   a   collar  of  gold,    upon 
which  was  engraved,  this  bird,  in   1610,  belonged  to  James  I, 
King  of  England.     It  was  consequently,  upwards  of  one   hun- 
dred and  eighty  years  old,  and  still  preserved  its  vigour.     The 
flight  of  the  falcon  is  very  rapid  ;  it   commonly  feeds  on   large 
birds,  such  as  pheasants,   pigeons,  ducks,  geese,    &c.,   and  to 
possess  them,  it  rises   above  its  prey,  and  pounces  perpendicu- 
larly upon  it.     This  quality  and  the  facility  with  which  the  com- 
mon falcon  may  be  trained,  caused  it  to  be  much  esteemed  when 
the  great  and  wealthy  were  pleased  to  pursue  game  with  birds,  as 
they  do  now  with  dogs  ;  this  bird  has  given  its  name  to  the  art  of 
hunting  with  birds  of  prey.     The  manner  of  training  these  ani- 
mals was  by  shutting  them  up  from  the  light,    exhausting   their 
strength  by  fatigue,  and  fasting,  and  then   presenting   bait,  and 
accustoming  them  by   degrees  to   pursue  this  or  that  kind  of 
game. 

32.  Which  is  the  longest  quill  in  noble  birds  of  Prey  ? 

33.  What  is  the   distinguishing   mark  of  Falcons   properly    so    called  'I 
What  is  their  general  character  ? 

34.  What  are  the  principal  species  of  Falcon  ?   What  is  falconry  ? 


EAGLES. 


35.  The  Gerfalcon*, — -Hierolalco, — have  the  tail  much  longer* 
than  the  wings,  which  are  also  large.    Only  one  species  is  known. 

36.  The  Gerfalcon,  or  Iceland  Falcon, — Fafco  candicans,  and 
Falco  islandicvs, — is  most  esteemed  of  all  birds  in  falconry.     It 
is   a  fourth  larger  than  the    Falcon,    and   chiefly  inhabits  the 
northern  parts  of  Europe. 

37.  In  the  DIVISION  OF  IGNOBLE  BIRDS  OP  PREY,  the  beak  has 
no  lateral  tooth   near  its  point,  but  a  simple  scallop  or  festoon, 
and  the  fourth  quill  of  the  wing  is  almost  always   the  longest, 
while  the  first  is  very  short ;  in  consequence  of  this  the  wings 
are  truncate  at  the  extremity,  and  their  flight  is   more   feeble. 
They   have  been  called  ignoble   because  they  could  never  be 
employed  in  falconry. 

38  This  section  is  very  numerous,  and  is  divided,  as  we  have 
already  seen,  into  many  genera,  which  are  sub-divided  again  into 
sub-genera,  many  of  which  are  sufficiently  important  to  be 
noticed  in  this  place. 

39.  The  genus  of  FAGLES, — Jlqmla,—  comprises  the  strongest 
and  most  courageous  birds  of  prey  of  the  great  tribe  of  Falcons, 
and  is  distinguished  by  the  form  of  the   beak  ;  It  is  sub-divided 
into  Eagles  properly  so  called,  Fisher-Eagles,  Ospreys,  Harpies,  &c. 

40.  EAGLES    PROPERLY    so   CALLED, — JiqvMa, —  have    the   tarsi 
feathered  to  the  roots  of  the  toes,  and  the  wings  as  long  as  the 
tail  (Mate  3,  /?</    1.)     [Their  vision  is  wonderfully  extensive, 
and  they  are  enabled  to  fix  their  eyes  upon  the  sun,  by  the   aid 
of  the  membrana  nictitans,   which  lessens   the  intensity   of  the 
light] 

41.  These  birds   are  remarkable  for  the  nobleness  of  their 
bearing,  and  for  their  bold  and  daring  attitude.     They  are  cele- 
brated for  their  courage,  and  as  their  habits  are  always  in  corres- 
pondence with    their   organization,    nature  has  endowed  them 
with   great   strength   and   powerful  arms.      They    are  fond  of 
carnage,  and  in  general  they  prefer  attacking  animals   of  con- 
siderable size  :  it  is  only  when  they  are  pressed  by  hunger   that, 
they  pursue  small  birds,  and  they  never  eat  carrion,  even  when 
in  a  state  of  absolute  want.     They  generally   live  in  pairs,  but 

35.  How  ore  the  Gerfalcons  distinguished? 

36.  How  many  species  of  Gerfalcons  are  known  ? 

37.  How  are  the  ignoble   birds   of  prey  distinguished  1     Why   are   they 
called  ignoble? 

38.  Are  the  divisions  of  this  section  numerous? 

39.  How   is  the  genus  of  Eagles  distinguished  ?      What  are  the  sub. 
genera  ? 

40.  How  are  Eagles  properly  so  called  distinguished  ? 

41.  What  are  ihe  habits  of  Eagles  ?     Do  they  eat  carrion  ? 

4 


40  EAGLES. 


do  not  permit  other  birds  of  prey  to  reside  in  the  vicinity  of  their 
abode  ;  they  do  not  even  permit  their  young  to  share  the  domain 
wherein  they  are  established,  and  drive  them  off  as  soon  as  they 
are  able  to  provide  for  themselves.  The  male  and  female  are 
generally  seen  at  a  short  distance  from  each  other,  and  they  seem 
to  have  a  sort  of  understanding  with  each  other  in  hunting ;  it  is 
asserted,  that  one  of  the  two  beats  the  bushes  while  the  other 
awaits  on  some  rock  or  neighbouring  tree,  to  seize  the  startled 
game  in  its  flight.  While  the  female  is  detained  in  the  eyry  by 
the  incubation  of  her  eggs,  or  by  the  cares  required  by  her  young 
the  male  hunts  alone,  and,  as  it  is  the  season  when  game  begins 
to  abound,  he  easily  provides  for  his  own  subsistance  as  well  as 
for  that  of  his  companion.  These  animals  can  endure  very 
long  fasting,  especially  when  captivity  or  maternal  cares  force 
them  to  repose.  A  common  eagle  taken  in  a  snare,  has  been 
known  to  pass  five  weeks  without  taking  any  aliment,  and  not  ap- 
pear enfeebled,  except  during  the  last  eight  days.  The  capacity 
of  their  crop  is  very  considerable,  and  this  pouch  may  serve  as  a 
reservoir  of  food  sufficient  for  several  days. 

42.  Eagles  properly  so  called,  are  found  in   all   parts  of  the 
eastern  continent,  and  some  species  belong  to  New  Holland.     In 
general,  they  inhabit  the  main  land,  and  do  not  establish  them- 
selves either  on  narrow  peninsulas  or  on  islands,  unless  they  are 
of  great  extent.     They  live  on  mountains  and  ordinarily   con- 
struct their  nests  or  pyties  on  the  highest  and   most   precipitous 
rocks,  or  on  the  platform  of  some  deserted  tower.     These  nests 
are  of  considerable  extent,  and  rest  most  frequently  on  some  flat 
surface  found  amongst  the  rocks ;  they   are  built   of  pieces   of 
wood,  which  are  often  five  or  six  feet  in  length  ;  their  interior  is 
lined    with   moss  and   dry  leaves;   and  their  height   increases 
every  year  by  the  accumulation  of  the  bones  of  animals  which 
these  birds  bring  to  their  nests.     In  short,  eagles  never  change 
their  eyry;  the  one  they  build  for  their  first  laying  of  eggs  serves 
them  for  the  remainder  of  their  lives. 

43.  In  the  genus  of  Eagles,  as   well  as  in  all  other  birds  of 
prey,  the  female  is  much  larger   than  the  male,   arid   seems   to 
be  also  the  most  courageous.     She  lays  but  two  or  three   eggs 
every  year,  and  frequently  rears  only  a  single  eagle  at  a  time. 
The  duration  of  incubation,  (at  least  for  the  imperial  eagle,)  is 
thirty  days. 

42.  Where  are  Eagles  found  f     What  situations  do  they  select  for  their 
nests  ? 

43.  How  does  the  female  differ  from  the  male  E igles  ?     How  many  eggs 
does  she  lay  in  a  year  ? 


EAGLES.  41 


44.  The  Common  Eagle, — Falcofalcu*, —  Falco  melanaetos, — 
Falco  niyer,  (P'ute  3,  fiy.  1.)  which  is  also  called,  yellow  eagle, 
or  black  eagle,  and  which  has  been  distinguished  by  the  name  of 
Royal  Eagle,  from  which  it  differs  only  in  age,  inhabits  all    the 
great  forests  of  Europe,  and  is  more  particularly  met  with  in  the 
mountains  of  Sweden,  Scotland,  and  the  Tyrol ;  it   feeds   upon 
lambs  and  fawns,  which  it  carries  off  with  surprising  force,  and 
rarely  attacks  large  birds.     Its  eggs  are  of  a  dirty  white  colour, 
spotted  red. 

45.  The  Imperial  Eagle, — Falc*  imperialism  — Jlqnila  he/iaca, 
—has  a  shorter  body,  and  longer  wings  than  the  common  eagle  ; 
it  inhabits  the  high,  wooded  mountains  of  the  south  and  east  of 
Europe,  and  is  quite  common  in  Egypt.     It   pursues  deers,   roe- 
bucks and  other  quadrupeds,   from    which  it   tears   enormous 
shreds  and  carries  to  its  eyry ;  it  is  still  more  terrible  to  other 
birds,  and  to  it  are  to   be  attributed  most  of  the  exaggerated 
accounts  of  the  strength,  courage,  and  magnanimity,  which   the 
ancients  gave  of  the  Golden  Eagle. 

4ti.  The  FISHER  EAGLES, — HalicetMs, — differ  from  eagles  pro- 
perly so  called  in  the  tarsi,  only  the  upper  half  of  which  are 
invested  with  feathers ;  they  keep  near  the  margins  of  rivers, 
and  the  sea,  and  live  chiefly  on  fishes.  The  species  which  are 
designated  by  the  names  of  Ossifrayus  and  Pygargus,  are  found 
in  all  the  northern  parts  of  the  globe. 

47,  The  Buld  E  igfe, — Fulco  leucocephalus, — inhabits  North 
America,  and  is  constantly  occupied  in  fishing.  It  is  of  a  uniform 
deep  brown  colour,  with  a  white  head  and  tail ;  its  beak  is  yellow 
and  it  is  almost  as  large  as  the  common  eagle  of  Europe.  It  is 
the  figure  of  this  bird  that  is  represented  in  the  national  emblems 
of  the  United  States. 

48  The  Ospreys, —  Pandion, — have  the  beak  and  feet  of  the 
Fisher  E'agles.  Only  one  species  is  known,  which  is  found  along 
the  shores  of  fresh  waters  in  almost  every  part  of  the  globe.  It 
is  the  Fish  Hawk,  or  Osprey, — Falco  halicehis. 

49.  The  Great  Harpy  of  America, — Falco  harpy  in. — Of  all 
birds,  this  possesses  the  most  terrific  beak  and  claws;  it  is  supe- 
rior in  size  to  the  common  eagle.  Such  are  its  powers  that  it  is 
said  to  have  cleft  a  man's  skull  with  its  beak  ;  its  ordinary  food 
is  the  sloth,  and  it  often  carries  off  fawns. 

44.  What  aie  the  characters  of  the  common  Eagle  ? 

45.  Where  is  the  Imperial  Eagle  found?     What  are  its  habits? 

46.  What  are  Fisher-Eagles? 

47.  What  is  the  Ba'd  Eagle? 

48.  Where  are  the  Ospreys  found? 

49.  Wh.,t  is  the  character  of  the  American  Harpy? 


42  GOSHAWKS  —KITES.— BUZZARDS— HARRIERS. 

50  The  GENUS  OF  GOSHAWKS, — fisting — comprises  the  Gos- 
hawks properly  so  called,  and  the  Sparrow-hawks;  they  have 
the  tarsi  scutellated,  (that  is,  armed  in  front  with  large  scaly 
plates,)  and  are  distinguished  from  each  other  by  the  length  of 
this  part  of  the  claw.  Although  cowardly,  they  may  be  employed 
in  falconry. 

5  J .  The  SPARROW-HAWKS, —  AV.sws, — have  the  tarsi  higher  than 
the  Goshawks ;  but  the  transitions  from  one  division  to  the  other 
are  almost  insensible. 

52.  The  KITES, —  IWilciis, — have  a  forked  tail  and  excessively 
long  wings,  which  makes   their  flight  exceedingly  rapid  ;  their 
tarsi  are  short  and  their  nails  weak  ;  their  beak  (Plate  3.  Jig.  8.) 
is  disproportioned  to  their  size,  and  they  are  the  most  cowardly 
birds  of  this  whole  tribe.     The  common. kite  of  France, — Fulco 
ntilcvs, — of  all  birds,  sustains  itself  the  longest  and  most    tran- 
quilly ;  the  elegance  of  its  flight  has   been  celebrated   by    poets. 
Jt  seldom  attacks  any  thing  but  reptiles.  ' 

53.  The  BUZZARDS,—  Huteo,—  have  very  long  wings,  but  their 
tail  is  equal,  their  feet  are  strong,  and  their  beak  is  curved  from 
its  base.     The  only    species   found   in    France   is  the  Common 
Buzzard, — Falco  buteo.     This  bird  dwells  throughout  the  year 
in  the  forests,  and  appears  stupid  and  idle ;  it  often  remains  for 
several  hours  together  perched  upon  the  same  tree  ;  it  does  not 
seize  its  prey  upon  the  wing,  but  awaits  on  a  hillock  of  earth,  a 
bush  or  a  tree,  from  which  it  pounces  upon  its  victim  ;  it   feeds 
on  young  hares,  partridges,  young  birds,  and,  when  this  game 
fails,  even  on  toads,  serpents,  grasshoppers,  &c.     The  nest  of  the 
Buzzard  is  built  of  small  branches  and  lined  inside  with  wool  or 
other  soft  substances ;  these  birds  lay  two  or  three  eggs,  which 
are  whitish,  spotted  yellow ;  the  mother  takes  care  of  her  young 
for  a  longer  time  than  any  other  bird   of  prey,  and  it  is  stated, 
that  the  male  continues  to  feed  them  after  its   female  has   been 
killed. 

54.  The  HARRIERS. — Circus, —  differ  from  the  Buzzards  in  their 
more  elevated  tarsi,  and  by  a  sort  of  collar  formed,  on  each  side 
of  the  neck,  by  the  ends  of  the  feathers  that  cover  their   ears. 
There  are  three  species  in  France,  namely;  the  Falco  pyydrgus, 
or   bird    of  Saint  Martin,  which  builds  every  where,  and  keeps 
vary,  much  in  the  fields  ;  the   I  afco  cineraceus,  which  has  the 

50.  What  birds  are  comprised  in  the  gmus  of  Goshawks  ? 

51.  H  w  are  the  Sparrovvbawks  distinguished  from  the  Goshawks? 

52.  Flow  are  Kites  characterised  ? 

53.  How  are  Buzzards  distinguished  ?     What  are  their  habits? 

54.  How  do  Hairicrs  differ  from  Buzzards  ? 


HONEY.BUZZ  A  RDS.— SECRET  ARY. __ '    43 

same  habits,  and  the  Falco  ceniginosus,  which  keeps  within  the 
reach  of  water  courses,  and  feeds  on  reptiles. 

55.  The  HONEY-BUZZARDS, —  Pernis, — are    distinguished  from 
all  the  rest  of  the  tribe  of  falcons  by  the  feathers  which  cover  the 
space  between  the  eye  and  beak,  which  space  in  all  other  birds  of 
this  tribe  is  ordinarily  naked,  and  simply  furnished  with  a  few- 
hairs.     The    Common    H  'iiey-  Buzzard, — Falco  apivorus, — feeds 
on  insects,  and  principally  on  bees  and  wasps. 

56,  Many  naturalists  also  place  in  the   tribe   of  Falcons,  the 
MESSENGER  or  SECRETARY — Serppntarius,  or  Gypoyeramis — a  bird 
which  inhabits  the  south  of  Africa,  and  which   is  very  remark- 
able for  the  extraordinary  length  of  its  tarsi ;  but  it  differs  too 
much  from  other  birds  of  prey,  to  be  arranged  in  the  same  tribe 
as  the  preceding,  and  should  constitute  by  itself  a  fourth  division 
of  the  family  of  Diurnae. 

57.  The  Secretary, —  Falco  serpentarius,  -  inhabits    the   dry 
and  open  grounds  in  the  vicinity  of  the   Cape    of  Good    Hope, 
where  it  hunts  reptiles  on  foot ;  its  claws  consequently   become 
much  worn.     "  I  perceived  one  day,"  says  M.  Smith,  '*  a  Secre- 
tary that  made  two  or  three  turns  on  the  wing,  near  to  where  I 
was.     He  soon  settled,  and  I  saw  that  he  examined  very  atten- 
tively some  object  near  the  place  where   he   alighted.     Having 
cautiously  approached,  he  extended  one  wing  which  he  constantly 
agitated.     I  then  discovered  a  serpent  of  large  size,  elevating  its 
head,  and  seemingly  awaiting  the  advance  of  the  bird  to   strike 
him  ;  but  a  quick  blow  of  the  wing  of  the  Secretary  soon  turned 
it  over :  the  bird  appeared  to  wait  till  the  serpent  should  rise  in 
order  to  strike  again,  but  approached,  and  seizing  it  in  his  claws 
and  beak,  rose  perpendicularly  into  the  air,  from  whence  he  let  it 
fall,  and  thus  finished  the  killing,  and   afterwards  disposed  of  it 
in  perfect  security." 

FAMILY  OF  NOCTURNAL  BIRDS  OF  PREY. 

58,  The  birds  of  prey  of  the  family  of  nocturnce,  have  a  very 
large  head  and  a  very  short  neck,  (P,afe  3,  fiy.  2.  and  5.) ;   the 
eyes  are  directed  forward  and  surrounded  by  a  circle  of  fringed 
feathers,  the  anterior  of  which  cover  the  cere  of  the  beak,  and 
the  posterior,  the  opening  of  the  ear ;  the  pupil  is  very  large  and 
the  sight  is  weak.     The  external  toe  can  be  directed  forwards  or 

55.  In  what  particulars  do  the  Hcney-Buzzards  differ  from  other  birds  of 
the  tribe  of  Falcons  ? 

56.  Does  the  Secretary  properly  belong  to  the  tribe  of  Falcons? 

57.  Where  is  the  Secretary  found  ?     Wkat  are  ils  habits? 

58.  What  are   the   zoological  characters  of  the  birds  of  the   family    of 
Nocturnae  ?     What  is  the  character  of  the  pupil  ? 


44 NOCTURNAL  BIRDS  OF  PREY. 

backwards  at  will.  The  apparatus  of  flight  is  not  strong,  the 
fourchette  is  weak,  and  the  feathers  are  armed  with  soft  beard, 
and  are  covered  with  a  very  fine  down ;  the  gizzard  is  somewhat 
muscular. 

59.  These  birds  which  are  often  designated  under  the  collec- 
tive name  of  OWLS, — Strix, — are  blinded  by  broad  day,  and 
only  see  well  in  the  twilight,  or  at  night  when  it  is  not  very  dark,' 
the  time  they  choose  for  hunting;  and  as  their  silky  feathers 
permit  them  to  fly  without  noise,  it  is  very  easy  for  them  to 
obtain  possession  of  birds  and  small  mammals  upon  which  they 
suddenly  pounce ;  there  are  some  species  that  hunt  even  in  the 
day  time,  but  during  this  period  they  generally  retire  into  hollow 
trees  or  rents  in  walls ;  sometimes  they  lay  squat  on  branches 
of  trees,  and  then  all  the  little  birds,  of  which  they  are  the  terror 
during  twilight,  corne  to  tease  and  insult  them.  During  the  night 
they  often  utter  plaintive  cries,  which  the  vulgar  regard  as  un- 
fortunate omens ;  but  in  reality  these  birds  are  more  useful  than 
injurious  to  agriculture,  on  account  of  the  number  of  small 
mammal-s  of  the  order  of  rodentia  which  they  destroy.  It  is 
probable,  the  large  size  of  the  head,  and  their  habitual  tranquility, 
obtained  for  them  the  reputation  for  wisdom  which  they  enjoyed 
among  the  ancients. 

60  All  the  nocturnal  birds  of  prey  resemble  each  other  very 
much,  and  the  differences  observed  pass  from  one  to  the  other  by 
such  insensible  intermediate  shades  that  it  is  difficult  to  establish 
good  generic  differences  in  this  family. 

til.  OWLS  PRORERLY  so  CALLED, — Eared  Owls, — Oh/s, — (Plate 
3,  fig.  2.)  have  the  disk  of  fringed  feathers  which  surrounds  the 
eyes,  very  complete,  and  itself  bordered  by  a  circle  of  scaly 
feathers ;  they  have  moveable  tufts  half  the  length  of  the  head, 
the  external  ear  very  large  and  furnished  in  front  with,  a  mem- 
branous operculum,  and  the  feet  are  feathered  to  the  nails.  The 
common  owl, — Strix  otus, — is  frequent  in  France  and  the  United 
States ;  its  length  from  the  top  of  its  head  to  the  end  of  the  tail 
is  thirteen  or  fourteen  inches,  and  its  plumage  is  yellow  with 
brown  spots.  It  ordinarily  inhabits  forests,  and  establishes  its 
retreat  in  caverns,  deserted  houses,  in  ruins,  and  during  the 
whole  night  utters  sad  and  plaintive  groans ;  it  often  takes  pos- 
session of  nests  abandoned  "by  crows,  ducks,  &c. 

59.  Why  are  Owls  designated  as  nocturnal  birds    of  prey  ?     Upon  what 
do  they  feed  ? 

60.  Are  the  generic  differences  found  in  Nocturnal    birds    of  prey  easily 
recognised  ? 

61.  How  arc  Owls  properly  so  called  characterised  ? 


OWLS.  45 


62.  The  HOWLERS, —  Ulula, — only  differ  from   the  preceding 
owls  in  the  absence  of  the  tufts  of  feathers,  which    in   common 
language,  are  sometimes  called  horns. 

63.  The  SCREECH  OWLS, — Strix, — resemble  owls  properly  so 
called  in- the  disposition  of  their  ears,  but  are  distinguished  from 
them  by  the  beak,  which  is  elongated  and  curved  only  at  the  ex- 
tremity,   while  in  the  other  nocturnae  it  is  arched  from  its  base. 
They  are  without  tufts,  and  instead  of  feathers,  have  only  hairs  on 
the  toes.     The  common  species  in  France,  known  as  the  screech 
owl  (rffraie,)  is  of  all  the  owls,  most  especially  regarded  by  the 
people  as  a  bird  of  evil  omen ;  its   plumage   is  yellow,  shaded 
with  ash  colour  or  brown   above,   and   prettily   spotted   bkick 
and  white.     It  is  found  in  Asia  and  America  as  well  as  in  Europe. 

64.  The  HOOTING  OWLS, — Syrnium, — differ  from   the  screech 
owls  in  their  auditory  conch  which  is  reduced  to  an  oval  cavity, 
that  does  not  occupy  the  half  of  the  height  of  the  cranium  ;  their 
feet  are  feathered  down  to  the  nails. 

65.  The  Dues,  or  HORNED  OWLS, —  Bubo, — have  tufts  like  the 
eared  owls,  and  an  auditory  conch  as  small  as  the  hooting  owls, 
but    they    have   the    disk    of   feathers    around  the   eyes    less 
marked   than   the  preceding  owls.     The  Grand  Due,  or  Great 
Horned  Owl  of  naturalists, — Strix  bubo, — is  about  two  feet  long, 
and  is  the  largest  of  all  the  nocturnae ;  it  is  common  in  the  great 
forests  of  the  eastern  parts  of  Europe,  and  is  also   met  with   in 
France.     Its  food  consists  ordinarily  of  moles  and  small  animals 
of  the  order  rodentia,   but  we  are  assured   that  it  sometimes 
attacks  young  roe-bucks,  and  it  often  contends  .  with   buzzards, 
and  carries  off  their  prey.     The  great  horned  owl  of  the  United 
States, —  Bubo  Virginia  nits, — which  is  found  in  all   parts  of  our 
country,  feeds  on  the  gallinaceous  birds,  domestic  poultry,  hares, 
opossums,  &c. 

66  In  former  times,  this  owl  was  employed  in  falconry  to 
attract  the  kite;  they  tied  a  fox's  tail  to  the  Due  to  render  its 
figure  still  more  extraordinary ;  it  flew  even  with  the  ground 
and  alighted  in  the  fields  without  perching  on  trees ;  the  kite, 
which  perceived  it  from  a  distance,  came  and  approached  the 
Due,  or  Great  Horned  Owl,  not  to  attack,  but  rather  to  examine 
it.  and  kept  near  it  long  enough  to  be  taken  by  the  hunters  or  by 
the  birds  of  prey  which  they  let  slip  in  pursuit. 

62.  How  do  the  Howlers  differ  from  Owls  properly  50  called  ? 

G3.  How  are  Scretch  Owls  characterised  ? 

G4.  In  u  h  .t  particulars  do  the  Hooting  Owls  differ  from  the  Screech  Owls  t 

65.  How   ate    the    Horned   Owls  characterised?-    Where   is  the    Great 
Horned  Owl  found  ?     Upon  what  dee?  ii  feed  ? 

66.  In  what  way  was  the  Great  Horned  Owl  employed  in  Falconry  ? 


46     ORDER  OF  PASSERINES. 

67.  The  owls  of  the  genera  NOCTUA  and  SCOPS,  have  the  open- 
ing of  the  ear  larger  than  ordinary  birds,  and  the  disk  of  feathers 
around  the  eyes  smaller  and  less  complete  than  in  all  the  pre- 
ceding owls.  These  characters  coincide  with  the  peculiarities  of 
their  habits,  which  bring  them  near  to  the  diurnal  birds  "of  prey. 
In  fact,  many  owls  see  sufficiently  well  in  the  day  to  distinguish 
and  pursue  their  prey.  The  Scops  have  the  heads  furnished  with 
tufts.  There  is  one  species  found  in  France,  whose  plumage  is 
ash  colour,  spotted  black.  , 


LESSON     IV. 

ORDER  OF  PASSERINE. — Zoological  Characters. — Habits. — Divi- 
s io n  into  fiv e  jam ?' lies. 

FAMILY  OF  DENTIROSTUES. — Shrikes  — Flycatchers. —  Coti.-.gas. — 
blackbirds. — 7^/irushes.  —  Water-thrushes.  — Orioles. — Lyres. 
—  Warblers,  (such  as  the  Nightingales,  Linnets,  and  Wrens  ) 

FAMILY  OF  FISSIROSTRES.  —  (Suiulloius) — Habits. — (Swallow,  pro- 
perly  so  called,  Martin..} — Goatsuckers. —  Habits. 

FAMILY  OF  CONNIROSTRES. —  Larks. —  Titmouse  —  Buntings. — 
Sparrows.  —  Crows,  (Crow  properly  so  called,  Jackdaw,  Mag- 
pie, Jay.) — Birds  of  Paradise. 


ORDER     OF    PASSE  RIN2B, 

1.  This  order  includes  all  birds  that  are  neither  swimmers, 
waders,  climbers,  rapaceous,  nor  gallinaceous  ;  that  is,  it  contains 
all  birds  that  are  not  assigned  to  the  other  five  orders ;  we  find  its 
characteristics, therefore, are  purely  negative;  yet, although  we  can- 
not unite  all  the  species  that  belong  to  it  under  a  common  descrip- 
tion, they  nevertheless  naturally  resemble  each  other  in  the  totality 
or  assemblage  of  their  organization.  The  Passerinse  have  neither 
the  violence  of  the  birds  of  prey,  nor  the  fixed  regimen  of  the 
gallinaceous  or  aquatic  birds ;  insects,  fruits  and  grains  consti- 
tute their  food,  which  consists  more  exclusively  of  grain,  in  pro- 
portion to  the  largeness  of  their  beak,  and  more  exclusively  of  in- 
sects as  it  is  more  slender;  and  those  that  have  strong  beaks  pursue 

67.  How  are  the  genera  of  Noctna  and  Scops  characterised  ?  Are  all 
Owls  incapable  of  seeing  in  the  daylight  ? 

1.  What  are  the  characters  which  distinguish  the  Passerinse  from  other 
orders  of  birds?  Upon  what  do  they  feed?  What  is  the  number  and 
arrangement  of  their  toes? 


FAMILY  OF  DENTIROSTRES. 47 

even  small  birds.  The  proportional  length  of  their  wings,  and  the 
extent  of  their  flight  are  as  variable  as  their  habits.  They  have 
four  toes,  three  before  and  one  behind,  and  occassionally,  tvvobe- 
Ibre  and  one  behind,  and  sometimes  all  four  are  in  front;  but 
there  ase  iifvct  tu'<t  before  and  two  behind,  as  in  the  next  ORDER; 
and  the  middle  toe  is  joined  to  a  greater  or  less  extent,  to  the 
external  toe  by  means  of  a  membrane. 

2.  The  order  of  Passerinae  is  very  numerous,  and  is  divided 
into  five  families,  which  may  be  distinguished  by  the  following 
characters : 

(Families.) 
Tlie  external      f      Notched  on   both  sides   near    its  t  r>ENTIR  STRES 


toe  shorter  thin      point, 
the  middle  one, 
and  Tree  for  the 
gn  ater  part  of  1 

its  length.  Without 

Superior    man-  a 

dible,  'v.     notch. 


Short,  wide,  flattened,  ; 
horizontally,   and    very  >  FISSIROSTRES. 


open. 


Strong  and  coniail,      J- CONIROSTRES, 
Slender  and  elongated  ^TENUIROSTRES. 


The  external  toe  almost  as  long  as  the  middle  one,  to  ) 
which  it  is  united  as  far  as  to  the  penultimate  articu-  >  SYNDACTYL.«. 
_  lation.  \ 

FAMILY  OF  DENTIROSTRES. 

3.  This  family  includes  those  Passerinae  only  that  have  the 
beak  notched  on  both  sides  near  the  point ;  they  are  all  insecti- 
vorous, and  most  of  them  also  eat  berries  and  other  tender 
fruits  They  have  been  classed  according  to  the  general  form  of 
their  beak,  and  in  this  way  divided  into  many  tribes,  the  chief  of 
which  may  be  recognised  by  the  following  characters  : 

2.  Into  how  many  families  is  the  order  of  Passerinse  divided  ?     What  is 
characteristic  of  the  Dentiroste<?     How  are  the  Fissirostres  dis'inguished? 
How  do  the  Conirosters  differ  from  the  Fissirostres  ?  What  is  the  character 
of  the  beak  in  th  ;  Tenuirostres  ?     How  are   the  Sand  c'ylae  distingu'shed 
from  the  other  four  families  of  Passerinae  ? 

3.  What  are  the  general  characters  of  the  Dentirostres  ?     (Answered  in 
the  Table.}   How  are  the  Shrikes  recognised  ?      By  what   characters  are  the 
Flycatchers  known?     How   are  the  Contingas    distinguished?     How   are 
Tanagers  characterised  ?     What  are  the   characters    of  the    Ant-catc'iers  ? 
How  are  the  Thrushes  distinguished?     6y  what  are  the  Orioles  known? 
How  are  the  Warblers  recognised  ?     In  what  tribes  of  the  family  of  Denti- 
rostes  is  the  external  toe  free?     How  are  Cocks  of  the  Rock  known? 


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SHRIKES.— FLY-C  ATCHERS  — COTING  AS. 49 

4.  The  SHRIKES,— Lanius, — have  a  moderate,  but  strong  beak, 
Which  is  straight  from  its  origin,  and  very  compressed  ;  the  upper 
mandible  is  strongly  curved  towards  the  point  where  it  forms  a 
hook,  and  is  armed  with  a  deep  notch ;  its  base  is  provided  with 
stiff  hairs,  and  is  destitute  of  cere.     Though  small  in  size,  these 
birds   are   full   of  courage ;  they  contend  with    birds   of  prey, 
and,  like  them,  live  by  rapine.     They  ferd  on  insects  and  small 
birds,  and  always  inhabit  the  woods  and  bushes  on  the  planes; 
they  live  in  families,  and  fly  irregularly,  and  precipitately,  utter- 
ing shrill  cries.     There  are  five  species  in  Europe,  and  several  in 
America.     The  common  or  Great  Shrike, — Lanius  excubitor, — 
which  is  ash  coloured  above,  white  beneath,  and  of  the  size  of  a 
Thrush  ;  and   the  Butcher   Bird, — Lanius    collurio, — which  is 
smaller  than  the  others,  has  the  back  and    wings  fawn   colour ; 
this  last  bird  destroys  a  great  many  small  animals,   birds  and 
young   toads,   as   well  as   a  number  of  insects,  grasshoppers, 
beetles,  &c.,  which  it  has  the  habit  of  sticking  on  the  thorns  of 
bushes,  in  order  to  devour  them  at  leisure,  or  to  find  them  again 
when  wanted.     This  little  Shrike  makes  its  appearance  in  the 
spring,  and  quits  France  and  the  United  States  in  the  autumn. 

The  cassicam  and  vanyas,  and  several  other  genera  are  grouped 
in  this  tribe,  and  have  similar  habits. 

5.  The  FLY-CATCHERS, — Muscicapa, — are  found  in  all  parts  of 
the  world.     Their  beak  is  moderate,  strong,  and  compressed  to- 
wards the  point,  which  is  curved,  and  deeply  notched  ;  the  base 
is  furnished  with  long,  stiff  hairs,  that  cover  the  nostrils,    which 
are  lateral  and  oval.     These  birds  are  travellers.     They  feed  on 
small   birds,  or  on  insects,  which  they  catch  on  the  wing ;  they 
alight  on  trees  in  the  forests.     Europe  possesses   a   great  many 
species. 

6.  The  name  of  Tyrant, —  Tyrann-ua,—  is  given  to  those  fly- 
catchers of  America,  that  have  a  strong  beak;  other  birds  of  this 
division  on  the  contrary,  have  a  very  slender  beak.  They  defend 
their  young  even  from  the  eagle,  and  drive  all  birds  of  prey  from 
their  nest.     The  larger  species  feed  on  small  birds,  and  do  not 
always  despise  carrion. 

7.  The   COTINGAS,   or  Crown  Birds, — Jlmpdis, — are  for   the 
most  part,  remarkable  for  the  beauty  of  their   plumage.     Their 
beak  is  short,  slightly  depressed,  a  little  convex  above,  and  sud- 

4.  What  are  the  characters  of  Shrikes?  What  are  their  habits?  Upon 
what  do  they  feed  ?  From  what  circumstance  does  the  Butcher  bird  derive 
its  name  ? 

5    What  are  the  characters  of  the  Flycatchers  ?     On  what  do  they  feed  1 

6.  What  are  Tyrants  ?     What  are  their  habits  ? 

1    What  are  the  characters  of  the  Cotingas? 


50  TANAGERS — THRUSHES.— BLACKBIRDS. 

denly  flexed  at  the  point ;  their  nostrils  are  half  closed  by  a 
membrane,  and  covered  in  a  degree  by  the  hairs  of  the  face ; 
their  feet  are  moderate :  all  the  species  belong  to  South  America. 
The  plumage  of  the  male  is,  in  general,  adorned  with  the  richest 
tints  of  purple  and  azure ;  but  these  birds  are  not  in  all  their 
beauty  except  in  the  spring,  for  during  the  rest  of  the  year  their 
tints  are  gray  or  brown. 

8.  The  Chatterers, —  Bombycilla, — have  the  head  ornamented 
with  a  toupet  of  feathers.     There  is  one  species,  the  Bohemian 
Chatterer, — Jlmpe/is  yarrvlas, — that  visits  Europe  in  flocks,   at 
long  and  irregular  intervals,  from  which  circumstance,  its  presence 
for  a  long  time  was  considered  as  an  evil  omen.     It  is  thought  to 
inhabit  the  extreme  north.    The  flesh  is  esteemed  a  great  deiicacy. 
The   Cedar  Bird,  or   Cherry  Bird, — tiombycitta  carolinensis, — 
is  found  throughout  the  American  continent.     Some  of  them  re- 
main in  Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey  during  the  winter. 

9.  The  TANAGERS, —  Taiiagra, — are   small    birds,   remarkable 
for  the  most  part,  for  the  varied  colour  of  their  plumage.     They 
resemble  the  Finches  in  their  habits,  and  feed  on  grain,    as  well 
as  on  berries  and  insects.     The  Summer  Red  Bird, — Tanayra 
cestica, — is  of  a  vermillion  red.     It   passes  the   greater  part  of 
the  year  in  the  tropical  America.     It  is  met  with  in  the  sandy, 
barren  forests  of  New  Jersey,  in  small  numbers. 

10.  The  THRUSHES, —  '/urdiis, — have  a  moderate  beak  with  a 
sharp  compressed  point,  but  not  forming  a  hook,  and  having  the 
notches  not  so  deep  as  in  the  Shrikes  ;  they  are  more  frugivorous. 
It  is  to  be  remarked  also,  that  their  nostrils  are  half  closed  by  a 
naked  membrane,  and  the  tarsi  are  longer  than  the  middle  toe. 
Some  remain  in  the  country  where  they  are  born  ;  others  travel 
in  numerous  flocks.     The  flesh  of  most  of  these   birds    is  much 
esteemed. 

1 1.  We  apply  the  name  of  Thrushes  properly  so  called  to  those 
species  in   which  the  colours  are  uniform  or  distributed  in  large 
masses,    and    we  call  those  Thrushes  in  which  the  plumage  is 
dappled,  that  is,  marked  with  small  black  and  brown  spots. 

12.  The  European  Blackbird, —  Turing  mervla, — is  found  in 
France  throughout  the  year  ;  the  male  is  entirely  black  with    a 
yellow  beak,  and  the  female  is  brownish.     These  birds  are   the 
first  to  hail  with  their  songs  the  return  of  spring ;  heard   at   a 

8.  What  are  the  Chatterers  ? 

9.  What  are  Tanagers  ? 

10.  What  are  the  characters  of  Thrushes  ? 

11.  How  are  the  two  kinds  of  Thrushes  distinguished  ? 

12.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  European  Blackbird  * 


THRUSHES.  51 


distance  they  are  very  agreeable;  they  possess  the  power  of 
prying  from  the  lowest  tc  the  highest  tones.  In  captivity  their 
Toice  loses  its  brilliancy  and  becomes  even  hoarse  and  false. 
This  blackbird  loves  solitude ;  it  only  keeps  in  the  thickest  and 
most  distant  copses.  It  feeds  on  worms  and  insects,  and  very 
adroitly  breaks  snail  shells  against  rocks  or  stones.  .  The  female 
constructs  her  nest  with  great  art,  which  is  well  cushioned  on  the 
inside  and  covered  on  the  outside  with  grass.  She  ordinarily  lays 
four  or  five  blue  eggs,  covered  with  brown  spots. 

13.  The  Grive,or  Common  Thrush, —  Tvrdus  mnsicus, — some- 
what smaller  than  the  preceding,  is  brown  on  the  back,   reddish 
yellow  with  black  spots  on  the  neck  and  breast,  white  on  the 
belly  and  flanks,  with  black  spots ;  the  wings  are  brown  above, 
yellow  beneath ;  the  beak  is  brown,  and  the  -tarsi  are  brownish 
gray.     It  is  met  with  in  France  only  as  a   bird  of  passage ;  it 
arrives  there  in  great  flocks  at  the  end  of  September,  and  sojourns 
nearly  a  month ;  then  it  returns  in  March  and  April  to  disappear 
again  in  May.     A  few  individuals  however,  remain,    and  build 
on  low  trees  or  bushes ;.  they  lay  two.  or  three  times  a  year,  from 
four  to  six  eggs  each  time.     The  song  of  the  Thrush  is  agreeable, 
and  its  flesh  is  delicate  ;  it  announces  the  return  of  spring,   and 
remains  during  three  quarters  of  the  year.     It  is   often   heard 
when  the  skies  are  heavy  with  clouds;  which  circumstance  has 
gained  fo»it,  in  some  countries,  the  title  of  bird  of  storms.  When 
this  Thrush  is  disturbed,  his  hoarse  and  noisy  song  seems  to  be  a 
mixture  of  warbling  and  cries.     In   its   ordinary  condition,  its 
gammut  is,  on  the  contrary,  a  scale  of  soft  and  grave  tones:  it 
often  sings  many  hours  together  without  the  slightest  interruption. 
When  reared  with  the  Linnet  and  Nightingale,  it  seems  to  study 
their  song,  and  ends  by  appropriating  it.     The  American  Robin 
or  Migrating  Tkrush^ —  Turdns  tnigratoriits, — is  found  in  summer 
throughout  the  North  American  continent.  The  Robin  Red-breast, 
which  is  said  to  have  covered,  with  a  leafy  shroud,  the  lost   and 
wandering  "  babes  in  the  wood,"  is  held  in  universal  lespect.  Its 
song,  "however,  has  not  the  compass  and  variety  of  the  preceding 
species. 

14.  The  Missle  T/trush,—  Turdus  viscivorus, — the  Litorne* — 
Turdus  pilaris, — and  the    Mavis, —  Turdvs  iliacus, — are   three 
other  species  of  Thrush  which  are  also  found  in  Europe. 

15.  The  Mucking  Bird,—  Turdm  polyylottus  — an   American 
bird,  celebrated  for  the  astonishing  facility  with  which  it   un 

13.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Grive  or  Common  Thrush  ? 

14.  What  other  Thrushes  are  found  in  Europe? 

15.  What  is  the  Mocking  bird  ? 


52 WATER.OUSELS.— ORIOLES.  —LYRES. 

hesitatingly  imitates  all  the  sounds  it  hears,  also  belongs   to  the 
tribe  of  Thrushes. 

16.  The  WATER  THRUSHES, — Cinclus, — have  a  cutting,  straight, 
elevated  beak,  compressed  and  rounded  towards  the  end,  with 
the  point  of  the  upper  mandible  bent  over  the  lower  one,'  There 
is  but  one  species  in  Europe,   which    has  the  singular  habit   of 
descending  into  the  water,  without  swimming,  but  walking  about 
the  bottom  in  search  of  small  animals  upon  which  it  feeds.     The 
•ft in*  r icon  Water  Ouwl,  or  Dipper, —  (Jinclns   Jlinericanus, — is 
cinereous  gray,  with  a  blackish  brown  head  and    neck.     It   is 
dislinguished  from  the  European  species  by  the   absence   of  the 
white  on  the  chin  and  throat.     Of  the  particular   habits  of  this 
bin!  little  is  yet  known. 

17.  The  ANT-CATCHERS,  —  Myolhera, — so  called  because  they 
live  chiefly  on  ants,  are  recognised  by  their  long  legs  and  short 
tail ;  they  are  found  on  both  continents. 

18.  The  ORIOLES, — Otiolus, — resemble  the  thrushes  very  much, 
but  their  beak  is  a  little  stronger,  their  legs  are  shorter  and  their 
winss  a  little  longer  in  proportion 

19.  The    Euro/wan   O/io/p,   or    Golden    Thrush*   the   Yettow 
Thrush  of  the  Germans, — Or  wins  yalbula, — is  of  nearly  the  same 
size  as  the  thrush,  (nine  or  ten  inches  long,  and  the  spread  of  the 
wings  about  sixteen.)  Themaleisof  a  beautiful  yellow;  thewings, 
the  tail  and  a  spot  between  the  eye  and  beak  are  black,  and  the 
end  of  the  tail  is  yellow  ;  but  during  the  first  two  years  of  life,  like 
the  female  at  all  times,  he  has  an  olive  in  place  of  the  yellow,  and 
brown  in  place  of  the  black  colour.     This  bird  suspends  its  nest, 
which  is  very  artfully  constructed,  from  the  branches  of  trees ;  in 
the  summer  it  eats  cherries  and  other  fruits,  but  in  the  spring  it 
feeds  on  insects  :  it  remains  in  Europe  only   during  the    warm 
season,  and  goes  to  Africa  to  pass  the    winter.     It  migrates    in 
companies  of  five  or  six.     In  the  summer,  when  it  has    become 
fat,  its  flesh  is  good  to  eat,  and  were  it  not  so  difficult  to  rear,  it 
would  be  the  ornament  of  our  cages  for  its  beauty.     The  Balti- 
more   Oriole,    or    Golden    Robin, —  Orioln*    bailitnore, — Icterus 
baltimore, — comes  amongst  us  from  its  winter  retreats  in  South 
America,  about  the  first  week  in  May.     It  bears  a  general  resem- 
blance to  the  preceding. 

20.  The  LYRES,—  llce>ira,-have  been  placed  with  the  gallina- 
ceous birds  by  some  naturalists  who  were  more  struck  with  their 

16.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Water  Thrushes  ? 

17.  How  aie  the  Ant-catchers  recognised  ? 

18.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Orioles  ? 

19.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  European  Oriole  ?  What  are  its  habits  ? 

20.  What  are  the  Lvres  ?     From  what  do  thev  take  tteir  name  ? 


WARBLERS.— NIGHTINGALE. 53 

large  size  than  the  disposition  of  their  feet  and  other  characters  ; 
but  in  reality  these  birds  approach  much  nearer  to  the  thrushes, 
from  which  they  scarcely  dilTer  in  the  form  of  their  beak.  They 
are  distinguished  by  the  singular  conformation  of  the  tail  of  the 
male  bird,  the  different  feathers  of  which  exactly  resemble  a 
Lyre.  These  birds  belong  to  New  Holland;  only  one  speciea  is 
known. 

21.  The  WARBLERS, — Motacilla, — are  extremely  numerous  in 
species,  which  are  found  in  all  countries.     They  have  a  straight, 
slender  beak,  in  the  form  of  a  bodkin,  higher  than  it  is  broad  at 
the  base ;  the  point  of  the  upper  mandible  is  often  notched,  and 
the  lower  one  is  straight ;  the  nostrils  are  half  closed  by  a  mem- 
brane; the  tarsi  are  longer  than  the  middle  toe.     Birds   of  this 
genus  are  emphatically  singers ;  they  are  almost   all  migratory, 
and  insectivorous.     They  are   divided   into  many   sub-genera, 
among  which  we  may  mention  : 

22.  The  Traquets, —  Saxico/a, — are   lively   birds1  that   stand 
tolerably   high    on  their   legs;  the  French  species  build  on  the 
ground  and  feed  exclusively  on  insects :  such   are   the    Common 
Traquet, — Motacilla  rubicola, — and  the  Wheat  Ear, — Motacilla 
teanthe. 

23.  The  Rubiettes,—  Sylvia, — live  on  insects,  worms  and  ber- 
ries ;  they  are  solitary,  and  generally  build  in  holes ;  the  Stone' 
ckat, —  .Motacilla  rubicola, — belongs  to  this  sub-genus. 

24.  In  the  division  of  Fauveites, — Curruca, — the  beak  is  more 
slender  than  in  the  trnquettes,  or  rubietlcs.     The  most  interesting 
species   of   this  little   group    is   the    Niqhtinga-e,  —  Motacilla 
lusciida.,—  the  plumage  of  which  is  reddish    brown  above,  and 
whitish  gray  beneath,  the  tail  being  a  little  red.     This  bird,  whose 
song    is  so   celebrated,  never  lives  in  flocks.     The  female  con- 
structs her  nest,  in  the  foliage,  of  straw  and  moss;  she  ordinarily 
lays  two  or  three  times  a  year,  and  four  or  five  eggs  on  each  occa- 
sion.    While  she  is  sitting,  the  male,  perched  upon  a  neighbour- 
ing branch,  endeavours  to  relieve  the  weariness  of  her   task  by 
the  harmony  of  his  voice;  if  an  enemy  approach,    he   continues 
to  sing,  and  his  interrupted  accents  tell  his  companion  all  she  has 
to  fear.     In  the  silence  of  the  night,  when  all  other  birds  have 
suspended  their  concerts,  the  melodious  voice  of  the  Nightingale 
alone  is  heard  ;  and  the  variety,  the  sweetness  and   harmony   of 
his  notes  place  him  in  the  first  rank  of  singing  birds. 


21.  What  nre  the  charactertTof  the  Warblers? 

2-.J.  Whit  are  the  Tr«iquets? 

2.*.  Whit  are  the  habits  of  the  Rubieltes? 

24.  What  are  the  characters  and  habits  of  the  Nightingale? 


54 WRENS.-TITLARKS. 

25.  The  Fauvette,— Motacilla  orphea, — which  is  ashy  brown 
above,  whitish  beneath,  is  common  in   Europe,    and   particularly 
in  the  southern  provinces  of  France,  which  it  leaves   in   flocks, 
about  the  middle  of  autumn,  to  return  in  the  spring.     It  feeds  on 
insects  and  soft  fruits,  and  makes  its  nest  in  the  bushes  or  reeds  ; 
the  male  has  a  strong,  sonorous  voice,  which  is  not  disagreeable. 
Its  song,  says  Buffon,  somewhat  resembles  that   of  the  Nightin- 
gale, and  is   enjoyed  for  a  long  time  ;  for,  many  weeks  after  the 
songster  of  the  spring-time  is  hushed,  the  woods  every  where  re- 
sound with  the  song  of  the  fauvette  ;  its  voice  is    smooth,   pure, 
and  light,  and  its  succession  of  modulations,  though  of  small  ex- 
tent, are  agreeable,  flexible,  and  graduated. 

26.  The  Wrens, —  Regains, — are  little  birds  that  keep  on  trees, 
and  there  pursue  gnats.     The  lioitelct,  or  Kinglet, — Motacilla 
regulus, — is  the  smallest  of  European  birds;  the  head  of  the  male 
is  adorned  with  a  small  yellow  tuft  bordered  with  black. 

27.  These  birds  possess  a  great  deal   of  activity  and  agility ; 
they  are  almost  always  in  motion ;  they  leap  from  branch  to  branch, 
clirnb  trees  on  all  sides,  they  eagerly  hunt  in  all  the  cracks  of  the 
bark,  and  sometimes  they  suspend  themselves,  feet  upwards  like 
the  torn-tit ;  they  feed  on  insects,  little  worms  and  various   small 
grains.    The  female  lays  from  ten  to  eighteen  eggs  which  scarcely 
exceed  a  large  pea  in  size  ;  her  nest  of  leaves  is  placed  on   the 
branches  of  the  fir-tree,  in  such  a  mariner  as  to  be  swayed  in  all 
directions  by  the  wind. 

28.  The   True    Wrens —  Troglodytes,— have  the   middle   toe 
rather  long,  and  the  nails  of  moderate  length.     They  are  remark- 
able for  their  almost  domestic  habits,  often  building  from  prefer- 
ence about  houses,  either  empty  or   inhabited ;  they  also  sing 
agreeably ;  species  are  found  on  both  continents.     The    House 

Wren, —  Troglodytes  aedon, — Sylvia  domestica, — is  only  a  sum- 
mer resident  of  the  United  States;  but  the  Winter  Wren, — 
Troglodytes  hy  emails, — sometimes  passes  the  winter  in  Penn- 
sylvania. 

29.  The  Wag-tails, — Motacilla,— are  remarkable  for  the  length 
of  their  tail,  which  they  are  constantly  elevating  and  depressing. 

30.  The   Meadow  Larks,  or    Titlarks,— finthus, — somewhat 
resemble  the  larks,  (Jilauda)  on  account  of  the  long    nail   with 
which  their  thumb  is  armed. 

25.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Fauvette? 

26.  What  are  Wrens  ? 

27.  What  are  the  habits  of  Wrens  ? 

28.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  true  Wrens  ? 

29.  How  are  the  Wag-tails  characterised  ? 

30.  In  what  respect  do  the  Meadow  Larks  resemble  the  Larks  1 


COCKS  OF  THE  ROCK.~SWAL7.OWg.  55 


31.  The  Common  Titlark^  —  Jlnihus  pratensis,  or  Jll  nda  pra- 
tciisis,—  frequents  humid  prairies  and    becomes  extremely  fat  in 
the  autumn;  in  many  parts  of  France  it  is  then  sought,  and  is 
known  under  the  name  of  ftec-figve^  —  becca-fica. 

32.  The  COCKS  OF  THE  ROCK,  —  Rupic  la,  —  are  distinguished 
from  all  the  preceding  species  of  the  family   of  Dentirostres,    by 
having  the  two  external  toes,  united  for  about  one  third  of  their 
length  from  the  base.     The  two   American    species,    when    full 
grown,  are  of  a  beautiful  orange  colour,  and  have  a  double  ver- 
tical crest  on  the  head,  formed  of  feathers  arranged  like   a    fan. 
They  are  found  in  the  warm  parts  of  South  America. 

FAMILY  OF  FISSIROSTRES. 

33.  The  Fissirostres  are  distinguished  by  their  beak,  which  is 
short,  wide,  horizontally  flattened,  slightly    hooked,    without   a 
notch,  and  very  deeply  cleft,  that  is,  the   commissure,  or  line  of 
junction  between   the   two   mandibles,  is  extended  so  that  the 
opening  of  the  mouth  is  very  wide,  and  they  easily  swallow  the 
insects  they  pursue  on  the  wing.     All  these  birds  are  exclusively 
insectivorous  ;  they  are  also  migratory,  and  migrate  in  the  tem- 
perate zones.     Their  flight  is  the  most  extended  of  all  terrestrial 
birds  ;  they  are  found  in  all  parts  of  the  world. 

34.  This  family  is  divided  into  two  tribes,  namely: 

35.  First.     The  DIURNAL  FISSIROSTRES,  with  a  dense  plumage, 
and  a  beak  that  opens  to  beneath  the  eyes. 

36.  Second.     The  NOCTURNAL  FISSIROSTRES,   the   plumage   of 
which  is  soft  and  light  like  that  of  the  owls,  and  their  beak  opens 
to  a  point  beyond  the  eyes. 

37.  The  Diurnal  Fissirostres  constitute  the  GENUS  OF  SWALLOWS, 
—  Hirundo,  —  all  of  which  are  remarkable  for  the  length  of  their 
wings;  this  genus  is  sub-divided  into  swallows  properly  so  called, 
and  Swifts;  the  latter  have   a  remarkable   conformation  of  the 
claws;  the  thumb  is  directed  forward  almost  like  the  other  toes 
which  are  all  separate,  and  each  one  has   but  three   phalanges; 
while  in  the  swallows  properly  so  called  the  thumb  is   inserted 
behind  the  tarsus,  and  preserves  the  same  direction    as   in   the 

31.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Common  Lark  ? 

32.  How  are  Cocks  of  the  Rock  characterised  / 

33.  What  are  the  distinguishing   characters  of  the  Fissirostres  ?     What 
are  their  habits? 

34.  Into  how  many  tribes  is  the  family  of  Fissirostres  divided? 

35.  How  are  the  Diurnal  Fissirostres  characterised? 

36.  How  are  the  Nocturnal  Fissirostres  distinguished  from  the  Diurnal  ? 

37.  How  are  Swifts  and  Swallows  properly  so  called,  dibtinguished  from 
each  other  ? 

5* 


56  SWALLOWS. 


other  Passerinse  ;  the  external  toe  is  united  to  the  median,  as  far  as 
the  first  articulation,  and  the  number  of  phalanges  is  not  unusual. 
38.  SWALLOWS  PROPERLY  so  CALLED, — Hirundo, — have  a  trian- 
gular beak,  broad  and  depressed  at  the  base,  a  little  curved  at 
the  point,  the  nostrils  oblong,  the  legs  short,  the  wings  very  long, 
and  the  tail  ordinarily  forked.  These  birds  delight  most  in  those 
places  where  flies  and  other  winged  insects  are  common :  they 
construct  their  nests  with  great  care,  often  of  a  sort  of  masonry 
in  the  ground ;  the  female  sometimes  lays  twice  a  year.  Most 
of  the  Swallows  leave  us  towards  the  end  of  September,  and 
migrate  in  large  flocks  to  warm  countries  where  they  pass  the 
winter ;  but  return  in  the  beginning  of  the  spring  and  take  pos- 
session of  the  nests  they  had  left  the  preceding  year.  Their 
habits  are  mild,  and  they  are  remarkable  for  their  sociability. 
They  often  join  a  great  number  together,  to  drive  off  an  enemy, 
the  attack  of  which  any  one  of  them  may  fear.  The  Swallow 
announces  even  to  Swifts,  and  other  small  birds  the  approach  of 
a  bird  of  prey.  At  the  sight  of  an  owl  or  a  hawk,  it  utters  a 
piercing  cry ;  immediately  all  the  birds  of  its  species,  and  the 
Swifts  assemble  around  it,  and  often  march  in  line  against  the 
enemy,  which  they  harass  until  he  is  forced  to  beat  a  retreat. 

39.  In  the  genus  of  Swallows  we  must  mention,  the  Martin, — 
Hirundo  urbica, — (Plate  4.  jig.  I.)  which  is  black  above,  white 
below  and  on  the  tail,  and  the  feet  are  feathered  to  the  nails.     It 
arrives  about  the  middle  of  April,  and  disappears  about  the  mid- 
dle of  September.     It  constructs  its  nest  of  earth,  lined   inside 
with  straw  and  feathers,  which  it  often  places  in  the  angles  of 
windows  and  beneath  the  eaves. 

40.  The   Chimney   Swallow^ — Hirundo  rustica, — is  an   inch 
longer  than  the  preceding,  with  a  very  forked  tail  and  naked 
toes  ;  it  is  black  above ;  the  front,  that  is  the  forehead,  throat,  and 
brows  are  red,  and  the  rest   of  the  bird  is  ordinarily  white.     It 
arrives  a  little  earlier  than   the  preceding,  constructs  a  similar 
nest,  which  it  commonly  places  on  chimneys,  in  stables  and  barns. 

41.  The  Salangane,  or  Edible  Swallow, — Hirundo  esculenta, 
— which  inhabits  the  East  Indian  archipelago,   is  celebrated  on 
account  of  its  nest,  which  it  constructs  of  a   whitish,  gelatinous 
substance,  arranged  in  layers ;  this  substance  is  a  marine  plant 
which  it  soaks  in  the  sea  and  grinds  previously  to  using.     These 
nests  are  eaten,  dressed  like  mushrooms,  and  in  soup ;  the  Chinese 

38.  What  are  the  habits  of  Swallows  properly  so  called  ? 

39.  What  is  the  Martin  ?     What  are  its  habits  ? 

40.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Chimney  Swallow? 

41.  What  is  the  Salangane  ?  For  what  purposes  is  thenest  of  this  Swallow 
used? 


GOATSUCKERS.  57 


regard  them  not  only  as  an  excellent  dish,  but  also  as  a  very 
restorative  and  medicinal  kind  of  nourishment ;  a  very  extensive 
commerce  is  carried  on  in  this  article,  which  has  been  sold  as 
high  as  five  dollars  a  pound.  From  thirty  to  fifty  thousand 
pounds  are  used  in  China  every  year. 

42.  The   SWIFTS, — C/icetura,   or   MARTINS,    or    Martinets, — 
Cypselus, — have  a  forked  tail  which  consists  of  six   quills   only, 
while  in  the  Swallows  properly  so  called  there  are  twelve;  their 
legs  are  very  short  and  their  toes  are  directed  forwards.     These 
birds  scarcely  walk  at  all,  and  are  seen  constantly   in  the   air, 
pursuing,  in  flocks,   and    with  loud  cries,  insects  in  the  upper 
regions  of  the  atmosphere.     They  nestle  in  holes  in  walls,   and 
in  rocks,  and  climb  along  smooth  surfaces  with  great  rapidity 

43.  The    Common   Martin, — Hirvndo  apus, — is  about  eight 
inches  long,  and  the  spread  of  the  wings  is  nearly  fifteen  inches. 
Tt   is  black  with  a  white  throat.     It  appears  in  France  in  the 
month  of  April,  and  departs  on  the  approach  of  cold.     It  ordi- 
narily lays  from  two  to  five  eggs  once  a  year. 

44.  The  tribe  of  NOCTURNAL  FISSIROSTRES  is  composed  of  the 
genus  of  Goatsuckers. 

45.  The  GoA.TSucKERs,—  Caprimulgus,— (Plate  4.  fig.  2.)— all 
resemble  each  other  in  their  plumage  and   habits.  '  They  only 
appear  towards  evening,  and,   for  this  reason,  they  might  be 
called  crepuscular  birds.     The  silky  nature  of  their  feathers,  and 
their  mixed  and  delicate  colours,  give  them,  as  far  as  relates  to 
their  external  covering,  a  strong  resemblance  to  owls.     Their 
eyes  are  large  ;  their  beak,  which  is  furnished  with  strong  mus- 
taches, and  more  deeply  cleft   or   open   than   in   swallows,    is 
capable  of  receiving  the  largest  insects  which  it  retains  by  means 
of  a  viscid  saliva ;  the  nostrils,  which  are  in  the  form  of  small 
tubes,  are  near  its  base ;  their  wings  are  long,  their   feet  short, 
and  the  tarsi  feathered  ;  the  thumb  can  be  directed  forward. 

46.  These  birds  live  isolated,  and  only  fly  during  the  twilight, 
or  in  fine  nights;  they  pursue  the  phalenae  and  other   nocturnal 
insects,  and  lay  a  small  number  of  eggs  on  the  ground    without 
taking  much  care  to  construct  a  nest.     When  they  fly.  the  rush- 
ing of  the  air  into  their  wide  mouth  produces  a  peculiar  humming 
noise.     It  has  been  said  that  they  sucked  the  goats,   but  this,  is 
untrue;  the  notion  arose  probably  from   their  frequenting   the 

42.  How  are  the  Swifts  distinguished  from  the  Swallows  ? 

43.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  common  Martin  ? 

44.  What  genus  constitutes  the  Nocturnal  Fissirostres  ? 

45.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Goatsuckers  ? 

46.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Goatsuckers  ?     Fror»  what   circumstance 
do  they  derive  their  name  ? 


GOATSUCKERS. 


fields,  where  goats  and  sheep  were  herded,  in  pursuit  of  the 
insects  which  are  attracted  there  in  great  numbers.  Only  one 
species  of  Goatsucker  is  known  in  Europe. 

47.  The    European    Goatsucker, — Capriimtlgiis   europceirs, — 
(Plate  4.  fig.  2.)  is  of  a  brown  gray,  undulated    with    blackish 
brown,  with  a  whitish  band  running  from  the  beak  to  the   back 
of  the  neck.     It  arrives  in  France  in  the  spring,  nestles  in  the 
heath,  and  the  moment  its  food  begins  to  grow  scarce  it  seeks  a 
warmer  climate. 

48.  There  is  one  species  in  Africa,  remarkable  for  a  feather 
twice  the  length  of  the  body  which  arises  from  near  the   carpus 
of  each  wing,  and  is  barbed  only  near  the  extremity.     The  warm 
parts  of  America  abound  in  these  birds. 

49.  The   Chuck-wills    Wicloa, —  Caprimvlgvs  carolinensis, — 
appears  in  the  southern   parts  of  the  United  States  about  the 
middle  of  March.     The  head  and  back  are  dark  brown,  minutely 
mottled    with   yellowish  red,  and  longitudinally  streaked    with 
black. 

50.  The    Whip-poor-will, — Caprimulgus  rocifi-rvs, — is   heard 
during  the  spring  and  early  autumn,  in  the  middle  section  of  the 
United  States.     Us  general  colour  is  a  brownish  gray,  streaked 
and  finely  sprinkled  with  brownish  black.     About  the  middle  of 
May,  the  female  lays  two  eggs;  like  all  birds  of  this  genus,  sfie 
builds  no  nest,  but  deposites  her  eggs  upon  the  bare  ground,  in 
some  dry  and  sequestered  situation. 

51.  The    N.:ght-Hawk,  or  Night- Jar, — Caprimulgus  rfmeri- 
canus. — is  met  with  in  all  parts  of  the  United  States.     It  is  of  a 
brownish  black,  mottled  with  white,  and  a  pale  reddish  brown 
above,  and  a  grayish  white,  undulated  with  dark   brown  below. 
Night-Hawks  arrive  in  the  Middle  States  towards  the  close  of 
April.     They  are  commonly  seen  towards  evening  in  pairs,  sail- 
ing around  in   sweeping  circles,   high  in   the  air,  occasionally 
descending  lower  to  capture  flying  insects,  chiefly   of  the  larger 
kind,  such  as  wasps,  beetles  and  moths.     About   the   middle   of 
August,  they  begin  their  migrations  towards  the  south,  and  may 
be    seen  as  late  as  the  middle  of  September,  in   the  evening, 
in    scattered  flocks,   consisting   of  several  hundreds    together, 
moving  towards  more  congenial  climes,  darting  after  insects,  01 
fee'ding  leisurely  as  they  advance.     Sometimes  different   species 
of  Swallow  are  mingled  in  these  wandering  tribes. 

47.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  European  Goatsucker  ? 

48.  Are  Goatsuckers  peculiar  to  Europe? 

49.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Chuck-will's  widow  ? 

50.  What  is  the  Whip-poor-will? 

51.  What  is  the  Night  Hawk? 


LARKS. 


59 


FAMILY  OF  CONIROSTRES. 

52.  All  the  birds  of  this  family  have  a  strong  beak,  more  or 
less  conical,  and  without  a  notch,  (Plate  %-fig-  9.):  they  live  on 
grains,  more  exclusively  in  proportion  to  the  strength  and  thick- 
ness of  their  beak.  The  principal  genera  of  this  family  are ; 
the  Larks,  the  Titmice,  the  Buntings,  the  Sparrows,  the  Cross- 
bills, the  Crows,  and  Birds  of  Paradise,  which  may  be  distin- 
guished bv  the  following  characters : 

(Genera.) 
'Straight,  strong,  and  longer  than  that  of  the  other  toes,    ^!/ARK. 


TRES, 

the  p 


II 


Of  ordinary 
size.     Beak 


f    Very  slender,  and  fur-    "} 
nished  with  hairs  at  the    J- TITMOUSE. 


«,    ~  Pre'ty  ptrong,  and  fur-    ~\ 

'     ,  J  nished  inside  with  a  hard   [ 
straight  and  <|       tubercle,  fixed  to  the        f 

palate.  J 


Strong,  and  more  or      ^ 
less  thick  at  the  base;  up-   S- SPARROW. 
per  mandible  inflated.    J 


conical. 


Compressed,  and  the  mandibles  cross- 
ing each  other. 


Stiff 

feathers,  direc- 
ted forwards. 


Very  strong,  and 

more  or  less  flattened 

on  the  sides;   nostrils 

covered  by 


CROSSBILL. 


CROW. 


Feathers,       "j     „ 
hich    resem-   >p 
ble  velvet.      J  r 


53.  The  LARKS, — Mauda, — have  a  straight,  short  beak,  in 
the  form  of  an  extended  cone,  (Plate  4,  Jig.  4.);  their  head  is 
small,  round,  and  furnished  with  feathers  on  top,  which  are  more 
or  less  erectile ;  their  tail  is  of  moderate  length,  and  almost 
always  forked  ;  their  nostrils  are  covered  by  small  feathers  which 
are  directed  forwards ;  the  posterior  nail  is  straight,  strong,  and 
much  longer  than  that  of  any  of  the  other  toes.  The  conformation 
of  their  nails  does  not  permit  these  birds  generally  to  alight  on 
trees,  but  it  is  useful  to  them  when  they  run  over  newly  ploughed 

52.  How  are  the 'Conirostres  characterised  ?     Upon  what  do  they  feed? 
What  are  the  principal  genera  composing  this  family? 

53.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Larks?     What  are  their  habits? 


60  TITMICE. 


ground ;  they  dwell,  in  general,  on  the  ground,  and  feed  on 
grains,  tender  herbs,  insects  and  larvae.  They  also  have  the 
habit  of  dusting  themselves  by  fluttering  on  the  ground.  The 
Common  Lark  is  found  nearly  throughout  the  eastern  continent. 
During  the  summer,  these  birds  prefer  dry  elevated  situations, 
and  delight  in  soaring  to  great  heights  in  the  air,  singing  in  a 
strong,  melodious  voice.  In  winter,  they  assemble  in  large  num- 
bers on  the  level  country  in  search  of  food  ;  when  the  cold  is 
intense  they  take  refuge  among  the  rocks,  and  along  streams  that 
do  not  freeze,  and  when  pushed  by  want,  they  approach  our 
habitations.  They  nestle  on  the  ground,  and  without  becorring 
familiar  with  man,  they  become  accustomed  to  captivity.  Their 
flesh  is  esteemed  a  delicacy. 

54.  The  Shore  Lark, — Jllauda  alpestris, — is  of  a  reddish  gray 
inclining  to  brown  above,  whitish  beneath  with  the  throat  and  a 
stripe  over  the  eye  of  a  pale  yellow  ;  th§  tail  and   wings,  and  a 
patch  on  the  breast,  black.     This  beautiful  species  is  common  in 
the  northern  parts  of  both  continents.     These  birds  arrive  in  the 
Northern  and  Middle  States  early  in  October,  and  generally  dis- 
appear on  the  approach  of  snow. 

55.  The  Sky  Lark, — Jllauda  arvensis, — is  universally  known 
by  its  perpendicular  mode  of  soaring,  accompanied  by  its  varied 
and  powerful  song.     It  is  brown  above ;  whitish  underneath,  and 
spotted  throughout,  with  a  deeper  shade  of  brown. 

56.  The  TITS,  or  TITMICE, — Parus, —  have  a  slender  and  very 
short  beak.     They*  are  extremely  lively   little  birds ;  they   are 
constantly  leaping  from  branch  to  branch  in  short  flights,  climb- 
ing and  suspending  themselves  in  all  manner  of  positions,  p'uck- 
ing  the  grains  upon  which  they  feed,  also  eating   many    insects, 
not  even  sparing  small  birds  when  they  find  them  enfeebled  by 
sickness,  or  entangled  in  snares ;  they  are  often  seen   to  pierce 
their  skulls  by  repeated  strokes  of  the  beak  to  devour  the  brains  ; 
they  also  pick  the  bones  to  a  skeleton.     In  proportion  to  their  size, 
which  is  very  small,  these  are  the  strongest  of  all  birds;  they 
attack  owls  fiercely ;  they  have  the  habit  of  storing  a  provision 
of  grains ;  they  nest  in  the  hollows  of  old  trees,  and  Jay  more 
eggs  than  any  other  of  the  passerine  birds.     Species  are  found 
in  all  parts  of  the  world,  and  there  are  several  in  the  United 
States.     The  Tufted  Titmouse, — Parvs  bicolor,—  is  crested,  and 
scarcely  exists  north  of  Pennsylvania,  and  New  York.     It  is  of  a 

54.  Wh  it  are  the  characters  of  the  Shore  Lark  ? 

55.  Whal  are  characters  of  the  Sky  Lark  ? 

56.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Titmice?     What   are  their   habits? 
Where  are  they  found  ?     What  are  the  characteis  of  the  Tufted  Titmouse  ? 


BUNTINGS.— SPARROWS. 61 

dark  bluish   ash-colour  above,  whitish  beneath,  and  the  flanks 
are  tinged  of  a  yellowish  brown 

57.  The  BUNTINGS,—  Emberiza — (Plate  3,  fig.  9.)  haveashort, 
straight,  conical  beak,  the  upper  mandible  being  narrower,  enters 
within  the  lower,  and  there  is  a  projecting  hard  tubercle  on  the 
palate.     All  these  birds  are  granivorous,  yet  they  also  eat  insects  ; 
they  inhabit  thickets,  fields  covered  with   hedges,  gardens,  and 
the  woods  rarely.     They  have  little  foresight,  and  are   readily 
caught  in  traps.     Some  of  them  assemble  in  numerous  troops  in 
the  winter.     The  most  common  species  in  France  are  the  Yellow 
Bunting, — Emberiza  czVr/w7/<7,  — the  Common  Bunting, — Embe- 
riza miliaria,  —  and  the  Ortolan,  —  Emberiza  hortultuia, — and 
there  are  several  in  the  United  States.     Amongst  the  latter  may 
be  mentioned  here,  perhaps,  the   Rice  bird,  or  Bob-D-Link, — 
Emberiza  oryzivora,  or  Doiichonyx  oryzii-orus. 

58.  The  SPARROWS  have  a  conical  beak  which  is  more  or  less 
thick  at  the  base ;  they  generally  live  on  grains,  and  are  for  the 
most  part  voracious  and  destructive.     They  are   divided   into 
Sparrows  properly  so  called,  Weavers,  Linnets,  Goldfinches,  &c. 

To  the  genus  of  SPARROWS  PROPERLY  so  CALLED, — Pyrgita, — 
belong : 

59.  The  Common  Sparrow, — Fringilla  domestica, — which   is 
brown,  spotted  blackish  above,  with  a  whitish  band  on  the  wing, 
gray  beneath,  the  sides  of  the  crown  in  the  male  reddish,  and  his 
throat  black.     It  abounds  in  all  parts  of  the  eastern   continent, 
except  in  those   places  where  wheat   does  not  grow ;  this  bird 
nests  in  holes  in  walls,  and  is  very  destructive  from  its  voracity. 
The  farmers  complain  very  much  of  the  pillage  of  these  birds  ; 
the  destructive  war  they  wage  against  caterpillars,  and  winged 
insects,  compensates,  however,   for  their  passing  devastations ; 
and   every  thing  considered,   it   may   be  said   they  are  more 
beneficial    than    injurious  to  rural  economy.     The  sparrow   is 
courageous,  and  often  contends  with  birds  ten  times  larger  than 
itself,  and  sometimes  enters  dove-cots.     These  birds   ordinarily 
nest  under  eaves  or  in  hollows  of  trees:   the  nest  is  constructed 
of  hay  and  straw,  lined  with  feathers ;    it  is  placed  so  as  not  to 
be  injured  either  by  the  sunshine  or  rain.     The  tenderness  of  the 
female  for  her  young  is  very  interesting.     The   male  is  distin- 
guished from  the  female  by  a  black  spot  on  the  beak. 

57.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Buntings  ?     What  are  their  habits  ? 

58.  How  are  the  Sparrows  characterised  ? 

59.  What  are  the  characters  of  the   common   Sparrow  ?    What  are  its 
habits  ?     Where  is  it  found? 


62 GROSBEAKS.— BULLFINCHES. 

60.  The  Common  Chaffinches, — Fringilla  ccelebs, — are  among 
the  most  common  of  European  birds  ;  their  habits  are  nearly  the 
same  as  those  of  the  common  Sparrow,  but  they  are  more  lively 
and  their  song  is  more  varied. 

61.  The  Common  Goldfinch, —  Fringilla  carduelis, — is  among 
the  most  beautiful  birds  of  Europe.     It  is  very  docile,  and  quickly 
learns  to  sing,  and  to  play  all  kinds  of  tricks. 

62.  The    Yellow  Bird,  or  Jlnwrican  Goldfinch, —  Fringilla 
tristis, — has  black  wings  varied  with  white,  and  a  black  tail 
tipped  with  white.     In  summer,  the  male  is   dressed   in   yellow 
with  a  black  crown,  and  in  the  autumn  in  brown  olive,  which  is 
the  permanent  colour  of  the  female  and  young  yellow  birds.      It 
is  a  general  inhabitant  of  the  United  States. 

63.  The  Common  Snow  Bird, — Fringilla  hyemalis, — is  a  hardy 
and  very  numerous  species,  common  to  both  continents.     About 
the  middle  of  October  they  pour  in  flocks  from  the  northern 
regions  into  the  United  States,  where  their  arrival  is  looked  upon 
as  the  presage  of  winter. 

64.  The  Linnet, — Fringilla  canabina, — is  found  in  all  parts  of 
Europe,  and  chiefly  inhabits  the  planes ;  its  sons;  is  very  agree- 
able. 

65.  The  Canary  Bird,  — Fringilla    canaria, — somewhat   re- 
sembles the  Linnet,  though  it  differs  from  it  very  much  in  colour. 
It  sings  so  agreeably,  and  is  so  easily  multiplied  in  a  state   of 
captivity,  that  it  has  become  common  throughout  the  world.  Most 
naturalists  agree  that  it  came  originally  from  the  Canary  Islands, 
where  it  is  found  wild  in  great  numbers;  but  some  travellers 
suppose  that  it  was  first  brought  from  Asia. 

66.  The  GROSBEAKS, — Caccothraustes, — are  distinguished  from 
other  Sparrows  by  the  great  size  of  their  beak  which  is  exactly 
conical.     The  Common  Grosbeak, — Loxia  caccothraustes, — is  the 
most  strongly  characterised.     It  inhabits  woody  mountains  and 
eats  almonds  and  all  sorts  of  fruit. 

67.  The  BULLFINCHES, — Pyrrhula, — have  a  round  beak  which 
is  inflated  in  every  direction,  and  sufficiently  strong  to  crush  the 
hardest  seeds. 

60.  How  does  the  Chaffinch  differ  from  the  Common  Sparrow  ? 

61.  What  is  the  common  Goldfinch  ? 

62.  What  is  the  American  Goldfinch  ? 

63.  What  is  the  common  Snow  Bird  ? 

64.  What  is  the  Linnet? 

65.  Where  did  the  Canary  Bird  come  from  originally  ? 

66.  How  are  the  Grosbeaks  distinguished  from  other  Sparrows? 

67.  How  are  Bullfinches  characterised  ? 


CROSSBILLS.— CROWS.— RAVEN'. 63 

68.  The  CROSSBILLS, — Loxia, — resemble  the    Bullfinches,   but 
the  mandibles  of  the  beak  are  so  much  curved  at  the  point  that 
they  cross  each  other.     By  this  singular  beak  they  are  enabled 
to  tear  out  the  seeds  from  under  the  pine-cones.     The  Common 
Crossbill, — Cnrdrtstia  Jlniericana,—  is  found  inhabiting  the  ex- 
tensive pine  forests  in  the   interior   of  Pennsylvania,   and   the 
Northern  States,  from  April  to  September. 

69.  The  Beef-eaters,  — -  Buphaga, — make  use    of  their  beak, 
which  is  inflated  at  the  end,  to  compress  the   skin   of  cattle  to 
squeeze  out  the  larvae  of  the  oestrus  which  they  eat.     Only    one 
species  is  known,  which  inhabits  Africa. 

70.  The  Starlings^ — Sternus, — have  a  straight  beak,  depressed 
at  the  point.     They  also  follow  cattle  and  feed  on  insects.    They 
are  found  in  all  parts  of  the  world. 

71.  The  CROWS, — Corvus, — have  a  large  beak,  straight  at  the 
base,  curved  towards  the  point,  and  cutting  on  the  edges  ;  their 
nostrils  are  concealed  by  hairs  directed  forwards,  their  toes  are 
entirely  divided,  and  their  wings  are  truncate  at  the  extremity. 
They  live  in  troops,  and  are  cunning  and  distrustful ;  they  readily 
become  familiar,  and  learn  to  speak  with   considerable   facility. 
The  senses  of  this  bird,  that  of  smell  particularly,  are  very  acute. 
They  have  the  habit  of  stealing  and  concealing  everything  they 
find,  even  articles  which  are  useless  to  them,  such  as  small  pieces 
of  money ;  they  provide  provision  for  the  future  season,  and 
feed  on  every  kind  of  aliment,  grains,  fruits,  insects  and  worms, 
living  or  dead  flesh,  so  that  no  animal  better  merits  the  epithet  of 
omnivorous.     The  principal  species  of  this  genus  are : 

72.  The  Raven,  —  Corvus  corax, — is  the  largest  passerine  bird 
found  in  Europe.     Its  size  is  almost  equal  to  that  of  the  domestic 
cock;  its  plumage  is  entirely  black,  its  tail  rounded,  the  back  or 
top  of  the  upper  mandible  arcuate  in  front.     The  female,  is  of  a 
less  decided  black,  and  her  size   is  somewhat  less.     This  bird 
flies  well  and  high  ;  it  perceives  dead  bodies  at  a  great  distance, 
and  feeds  besides  on  all  kinds  of  fruits  and    small  animals.     It 
lives  very  retired,  but  in  pairs,  which  make  their  nest  in  crevices 
of  rocks,  or  in  holes  in  walls,  in  old  abandoned  towers,  and  some- 
times upon  the  summit  of  lone  trees.     The  nest  is   very   large, 

68.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Crossbills  ? 

69.  From  what  circumstance  do  the  Beef-eaters  derive  their  name  ? 

70.  What  are  Starlings  ? 

71.  What  are  the  characters  of  Crows  ?     What  are  their  habits?     Upon 
what  do  they  feed  ? 

72.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Raven  ?    What  are  its  habits?    What 
situations  does  it  select  for  its  nest?     Where  is  it  found?     How    does  the 
female  differ  from  the  male  ? 

6 


64 JACKDAW.— MAGPIE. 

and  is  composed  externally  of  branches  and  roots  of  shrubs ; 
bones  of  quadrupeds,  or  fragments  of  hard  substances  form  the 
second  layer,  and  the  interior  is  lined  with  herbs,  moss,  and  hair. 
About  the  month  of  March,  the  female  lays  five  or  six  eggs  of  a 
pale  bluish  green  colour,  marked  with  a  great  many  obscure 
spots  and  tints.  The  cares  of  incubation,  which  lasts  about 
twenty  days,  are  shared  by  the  male.  The  Raven  is  met  with 
in  all  climates ;  it  appears  to  be  insensible  to  the  vicissitudes  of 
the  seasons.  When  other  birds  are  overcome  by  the  cold  and 
oppressed  by  hunger,  it  leisurely  seeks  its  prey  and  hunts  in  the 
coldest  atmosphere.  Some  travellers  assert  that  they  have  seen 
Ravens  that  were  entirely  white ;  which  is  apparently  attributa- 
ble to  the  rigorous  climate  of  northern  regions. 

73.  [The  Crow,  —  Corvus  Jlmericanus, — like  the  Raven,  is  a 
denizen  of  nearly  the  whole  world.     Our  native  Crow  is  black 
and  glossy,  with  violet  coloured  reflections.     It  is  a  troublesomely 
abundant   resident   in   most   of  the   settled   districts   of  North 
America.     It  is  easily  raised  and  domesticated,  and  soon  learns 
to  distinguish  the  different  members  of  the  family  with  which  it 
is  associated. 

74.  [The  Fish-Crow, — Cornis  ossifragiis, — keeps   apart  from 
the  common  species,  and  spends  its  time  near  rivers,  hovering 
over  the  stream  to  catch  up  dead,  and  perhaps  living  fishes.     It 
breeds  in  New  Jersey  in  tall  trees,  having  nests  and  eggs  very 
similar  to  the  preceding  species.] 

75.  The  Jackdaw, — Corvus  monedula, — is  about  the  size  of  a 
pigeon  ;  it  is  less  black  than  the  Crow,  inclining  even  to  ash- 
colour  about  the  neck  and  below.     It  inhabits  Europe  through- 
out the  year,  and  keeps  about  the  tops  of  churches,  in  old  towers, 
in  ruined  buildings,  and  sometimes,  though  rarely,  around  chim- 
neys ;  its  nests  are  also  found  in  the  hollows  of  trees,  and  rabbit 
burrows.     The  female  lays  five  or  six  eggs,  which  are  paler  and 
smaller  than  those  of  the  Raven.     Jackdaws  are  readily   tamed 
and  may  be  taught  even  to  pronounce  words.     They  like  to  hide 
a  part  of  their  food,  and  we  sometimes  find  in  their  holes  small 
pieces  of  money  which  they  delight  in  stealing.     They   feed   on 
grains,  insects  and  fruits;  they  are  particularly  fond  of  partridge 
eggs,  and  they  have  been  known  to  catch  fish. 

76.  The  Magpie, —  Pica, — Corvus  pica, — is  a  beautiful  bird, 
of  a  silky  black  colour,  with  purple,  blue  and  gold  reflections:  it 

73.  What  are  the  habit*  of  the  Crow  ? 

74.  Where  is  the  Fish-Crow  found  ?     What  are  its  habits  ? 

15.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Jackdaw  ?     What  are  its  habits  ? 
76.  What  <trt  the  characters  of  the  Magpie  ?     What  are  its  habits  ? 


JAYS.  65 

is  white  beneath,  and  there  is  a  spot  of  the  same  colour  on  the 
wing.  The  Magpie  is  omnivorous,  and  often  commits  great 
ravages  in  granaries  and  poultry  yards.  It  never  attempts  long 
journeys,  but  flies  from  tree  to  tree  'when  at  a  short  distance 
apart.  The  female  takes  great  pains  in  the  construction  of  her 
nest,  never  leaving  a  greater  opening  than  is  necessary  for  her 
own  entrance  and  egress ;  she  covers  it  with  a  transparent  veil 
composed  of  small  thorny  branches,  closely  interlaced  ;  she  lines 
it  with  wool  and  other  soft  materials  upon  which  her  young  ones 
snugly  repose ;  she  lays  seven  or  eight  eggs  of  a  pale  gray 
colour,  spotted  black.  This  bird  may  be  easily  tamed  and  taught 
to  pronounce  words,  and  even  short  sentences ;  often  when  a 
strange  sound  strikes  her  ear,  she  endeavours  to  imitate  it.  Like 
other  birds  of  its  genus,  it  is  inclined  to  theft,  and  also  has  the 
habit  of  concealing  superfluous  food.  The  Magpies  are  known 
to  make  so  great  a  destruction  among  the  eggs  of  grouse, 
pheasants,  partridges,  and  even  among  young  chickens,  in  many 
parts  of  Europe,  as  to  be  proscribed  by  law,  and  destroyed  for 
the  premium  justly  set  on  their  heads.  In  this  country,  these 
birds  are  confined  to  the  northern  regions,  and  to  the  planes  and 
table-lands  of  the  Rocky  Mountains  west  of  the  Mississippi.  In 
Upper  California,  there  is  a  species  which  differs  from  the  pre- 
ceding, in  having  the  bill,  and  a  bare  space  beneath  and  behind 
the  eye,  yellow.  It  is  called  the  Yellow- billed  Maypie, —  Pica 
Nvtfallu. 

77.  The  Jay  of  Europe, — Cornus  ghmdarivs, — is  of  a  vinous 
gray,  with  mustaches,  and  the  quills  of  the  tail  black  ;  it  is  par- 
ticularly remarkable  for  a  spot  of  dazzling  blue,  striped  with  a 
deep  blue,  which  marks  a  part  of  the  wing  coverts.  Jays  are 
met  with  that  have  a  white  or  yellowish  plumage  and  a  red  iris 
like  that  of  albinos.  This  bird  is  spread  almost  throughout 
Europe,  where  it  lives  in  pairs,  which  assemble  in  small  troops, 
and  feed  on  acorns,  gooseberries,  cherries  and  insects.  The  Jays 
are  of  a  petulent  nature  ;  they  are  very  lively,  and  quick  in  their 
motions;  and  in  their  frequent  paroxysms  of  rage,  they  forget 
their  own  self  preservation,  and  are  sometimes  caught  by  the 
head  betwixt  two  branches  and  die,  thus  suspended  in  the  air ; 
their  perpetual  agitation  leads  to  increased  violence  when  con- 
fined, and  for  this  reason,  they  are  not  recognisable  in  a  cage, 
not  being  able  to  preserve  the  beauty  of  their  feathers,  which  are 
soon  broken,  torn  and  disordered,  by  their  continual  rubbing 
against  its  walls.  [  The  elegant  and  common  American  species, 

77.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  European  Jay  ?  What  are  its  habits  f 
What  are  the  characters  of  the  Blue  Jay  ? 


6b CROW  BLACKBIRDS.— BIRDS  OF  PARADISE. 

the  Blv.e  Jay, —  Corvus  cristatiis,  —  resembles  the  preceding  in  its 
temper  and  habits.  It  is  crested;  it  is  blue  above,  and  beneath 
whitish  with  a  black  collar ;  the  wing  coverts  are  transversely 
barred  black,  and  the  tail  is  wedge-shaped. 

78.  [The  Great  Crow  Blackbird, — Quiscalus  major, —  is  glossy 
black.     This  large  crow-like  species,  sometimes  called  the  Jack- 
daw, inhabits  the  southern  maritime  parts  of  the  United  States. 
It  is  sociable  in  disposition,  and  often  mingles  with   the  common 
Crow-blackbirds.     It  is  omnivorous,  and  feeds  on  insects,  small 
shell-fish,  corn  and  small  grain,  so  that  by  turns,  it  may  be  viewed 
as  the  friend  or  plunderer  of  the  planter.     The  common  Crovr 
Blackbird, — Quiscalns  versico/or, — and  the  Rusty  Blackbird, — 
Quiscalus  ferruyincus, — are  two  other  American  species  of  this 
genus.] 

79.  BIRDS  OF  PARADISE, — Paradiscea, — like  the  Crows  have  a 
straight,  quadrangular,  pointed  beak,  which  is  compressed  and  a 
little  convex  above;  their  nostrils  are  covered   by    the  velvety 
feathers  of  the  front.     These  birds,  which  are  indigenous  to  New 
Guinea  and  the  neighbouring  islands,  are  all  provided  with  the 
most  brilliant  plumage.  Their  history  was  for  a  long  time  a  tissue 
of  fable  and  absurdity.     The  female,  it   was  asserted,   laid  her 
eggs  while  flying,  and  had  no  legs  ;  .and  when  sleeping,   it   sus- 
pended itself  from   branches  of  trees  by  the  long  thread  like 
feathers  of  the  tail ;  that  it  fed  exclusively  on  dew,  and   never 
touched  the  earth  till  it  was  dead  !     All   these    accounts  have 
found  their  place,  and  observation  has  revealed  the  truth. 

80.  The  most  celebrated  species  is  the  Emerald  Bird  of  Para- 
dise,— Paradiscea  apoda. — Its  head  is  small,  but  ornamented  with 
feathers  that  in  brilliancy  rival  those  of  the  peacock ;  the  neck  is 
of  a  yellowish  tint;  the  body  is   very  small,   but  covered    with 
Jong   feathers  of  a  brown  tint  sprinkled  with   gold,  two   long 
bearded  filaments  or  thread  like  feathers,  spring  from  the   rump 
and  form  the  tail.     The  long,  light,  and  graceful  feathers  of  this 
bird  form  the   most  beautiful,  and  most  sought  plumes  for   the 
decoration  of  ladies*  head  dresses.     These  birds  travel  in  troops 
of  thirty  or  forty  under  the  direction  of  a  chief,  which  the  Indians 
call  the  king.     Their  light  plumage  does  not  permit  them  to  fly 
against  the  wind,  and  if  overtaken  by  a  gale  they  rise  into  the 
upper  regions  of  the  atmosphere,  and  leave  the  storm  below  them. 

78.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Great  Crow   Blackbird?     What   are 
its  habits  ? 

79.  What  are  the  characters  of  Birds  of  Paradise  ?  Where  are  they  found  ? 
80    What  are  the  characters  of  the  Emerald   Bird  of  Paradise  ?     What 

are  its  habits  ? 


NUTHATCHES. 


67 


LESSON    V. 

FATVIILY  OF      ENUIROSTRES.  —  Nuthatches.  —  Creepers.  —  Humming 

Birds. 

FAMILY  OF  SYNDACTYL.E.  —  Bee-eaters  —  Kingfishers.  —  Hornbills. 
ORDER  OF  SCANSORI^E.  —  Zoological  Characters  —  Woodpeckers. 

—  Wrynecks.  —  Cvckoos.  —  Toucans.  —  1'arrots.  —  Habits,  (Mac- 

caws,  Paioquets,  P  an  ots  properly  so  called) 

FAMILY  OF  TENUIROSTRES. 

1.  Birds  of  this  family  have  a  slender,  elongated  beak  without 
a  notch,  and  which  is  sometimes  straight,  and  sometimes  arcuate. 
(Plate  3,  fig.  11.)  The  principal  genera  of  this  family  are  the 
Nuthatches,  Creepers,  Humming-birds,  and  Hoopoes,  which  may 
be  recognised  by  the  following  characters: 

(Genera.) 

C  Straight,     ....       J>  NUTHATCHES. 
Moderate,  and  < 

(  Arcuate,     ....       ^CREEPERS. 


TENUIROSTRES,  , 
having  the    - 
beak 


Very  long  and 
very  slender,  tongue 


HUMMING-BIRDS. 


extensib!e- 
Short,  and 


the  throat 


2.  The  Nuthatches,  —  Sitta,  —  have  a  moderate,  straight, 
depressed  beak,  which  is  cylindrical,  conical,  and  trenchant  at 
the  point  ;  their  nostrils  are  partly  covered  by  hairs  directed  for- 
wards, and  their  tongue  is  short  and  very  slightly  protractile. 
They  climb  with  agility  in  all  directions,  live  on  insects  and 
nestle  in  the  trunks  of  trees.  The  Common  European  Nuthatch, 
—  Silta  Europaas  —  is  of  a  bluish  ash-colour.  It  is  sedentary, 
and  inhabits  the  lofty  forests.  The  male  joins  the  female  in  the 
spring,  in  constructing  the  nest  ;  they  establish  themselves  in  a 
hole  in  a  tree,  and  if  the  hole  is  too  large,  they  reduce  it  with 
mud,  which  circumstance  has  acquired  for  it  the  name  of 
Mason-pie;  they  line  the  interior  with  a  thin  bed  of  moss,  upon 
which  the  female  lays  from  five  to  seven  grayish  eggs,  marked 

1.  What    are  the  characters   of   birds   of  the   family  of    Tenuirostres? 
What  are  the  principal  genera  of  this  family? 

2.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Nuthatches  ?     What   are  the  liabits 
of  the  common  European  Nuthatch  ?     Upon  what  docs  it  feed  ? 

6* 


68  CREEPERS. 


with  small  red  spots.  It  is  said,  she  is  so  much  attached  to  her 
eggs,  that  she  never  leaves  them  during  the  whole  period  of  incu- 
bation, and  takes  no  other  food  than  that  brought  to  her  by  the 
male.  The  young  escape  from  the  shell  about  the  month  of  May, 
and  very  soon  retire  to  live  by  themselves.  These  birds  feed  on 
insects,  grains,  hazel-nuts,  beech-nuts,  flax-seed,  &c.  The  mode 
of  getting  out  the  substance  of  the  hazel-nuts,  consists  in  fixing 
them  solidly  in  a  crack,  and  then  piercing  them  by  repeated  blows 
with  their  beak. 

3.  [In  the  United  States  we  have  the  White-breasted  Nuthatch, 
— Sitta  carolinensis, — which  is  lead  colour,  with  the  head  and 
neck    black   above,  and  pure  white  beneath ;    the   Red-bellied 
Nuthatch,  — Sitt.a  canadejisis, — which  is  of  a  rust  colour  be- 
neath, and   some  others ;  all   of  which,   in  their  general  habits, 
resemble  the  European  species.] 

4.  The  CREEPERS,  —  Certhia,— have  a  beak  of  moderate  length, 
more  or  less  arcuate,  triangular,  compressed  and  slender ;  .their 
nostrils,  which  are  horizontally  pierced,  are  half  closed  by  an 
arched  membrane. 

5.  The  Creepers  properly  so  called, — Certhia, — have  a  slanting 
tail,  which  is  furnished  with  stiff,  sharp  quills ;  it    serves  to  aid 
them  in  climbing  trees ;  their  tongue  is  sharp  and  adapted  for 
piercing  insects  upon    which   they  feed.     There  is  one  species 
found  in  Europe,  and  one  in  the  United  States.     The  European 
Creeper, — Certhia  familiarly — is  a  small  bird  which  is  met  with 
in  different  parts  of  Europe,  as  far  north  as  Siberia  ;  it  is  con- 
stantly climbing  trees  in  pursuit  of  insects  and  larvae.  The  Brow.n 
Creeper, — Certhia  atttericana, — is   of  a   dark  gray  varied  with 
white,   brown  and  dusky ;  white  beneath  ;  the  rump   and  tail 
rusty.     This  industrious  forager  for  insects,  chiefly    dwelling  in 
the  seclusion  of  the  forest,  is  but  seldom  seen    in   summer;  but 
on   the   approach    of  winter,  with  other  hungry  wanderers*  of 
similar  habits,  such  as  the  small  Woodpeckers  and   Nuthatches, 
he   makes  his  appearance   on  the  wooded  skirts  of  the  village, 
particularly  among  pine  trees,  and  occasionally  becomes  familiar 
enough  to  pay  a  passing  visit  to  the  orchard.     The  species  is 
neither  common   nor   abundant,   though  their  breeding   range 
extends  from  Pennsylvania  to  Newfoundland. 

3.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  White-breasted  Nuthatch  ?     What  are 
the  characters  of  the  Red-bellied  Nuthatch?     Where  are  these  two  species 
found  ? 

4.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Creepers  t 

5.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Creeper  properly  so  called?     What  is 
the  European  Creeper  ?    What  is  the  Brown  Creeper  ?     What  are  the  habits 
of  these  birds  ? 


HUMMING-BIRDS.— SYNDACTYL.E. 69 

6.  There  are  several  sub  divisions  of  this  genus.  Those  known 
in   France  under  the  name  of  echelettes, —  Tichodroma, — climb 
like  the  preceding,  but  without  supporting  themselves  with  their 
tail,  which  is  feeble  and  rounded  ;  they  keep  more  on  walls  and 
rocks  than  on  trees. 

7.  The  HUMMING-BIRDS, —  Trochilus, — (Plate  3,  fig.   11,)  are 
celebrated  for  the  beautiful  colours  and  metallic   lustre  of  their 
plumage,  as  well  as  for  their  small  size ;  they  inhabit   America 
and  the  adjacent  islands.     Their  beak  is  long,  straight  or  arcuate, 
tubular  and  very  slender ;  their  tongue  is  long,  extensible   and 
bifid,  that  is,  divided  into  two  filaments  ;  their  nostrils  are  covered 
by  a  wide  arched  membrane,  and  their  feet,  which  are  very  short, 
have  the  tarsi  shorter  than  the  middle  toe ;  their  wings  are  very 
long;  their  plumage  is  sometimes  ornamented  with  patches  that 
are  as  brilliant  as  precious  stones,     They  feed  on  the  nectar  of 
flowers,  about  which  they  are  seen  buzzing  and  balancing  in  the 
air  like  certain  flies,  or  rather  butterflies.     They  sometimes  eat 
small  flies  and  other  diminutive  insects  which  they  find  in  flowers. 
They  live  isolated,  and  defend  their  nests  courageously,  and  some- 
times contend  fiercely  with  each  other.     The   Northern    Hum- 
ming-bird,—  Trochilus  colubris, — is  golden-green;  the  tail  forked 
and  dusky,  and  the  three  outer  tail  feathers  are  of  a  rusty  white 
at  tip.     The  male  has  a  changeable  ruby-coloured  throat,  which 
in  the  female  is  nearly  white.     This  wonderfully  diminutive  and 
brilliant  bird,  is  the  only  one  of  an  American  genus,  of  more  than 
a  hundred  species,  which  ventures  beyond  the  limits  of  tropical 
climates. 

8.  The  Hoopoes,  —  Upupa, — have  an   ornament  on  the  head 
formed  of  a  double  range  of  long  feathers,  which  they  can  erect 
at  will. 

FAMILY  OF  SYNDACTYL.E. 

9.  In  the  birds  of  this  family,  the  external  toe  is  almost  as  long 
as  the  middle  one,  to  which  it  is  joined  by  a  membrane  as  far  as 
the  penultimate  articulation. 

10.  The  principal  genera  of  this  family,  are:  the    Bee-eaters, 
the  King  Fishers,  and  the  Calaos,   or  Hornbills,   which  may   be 
readily  distinguished  from  each  other  by  the  form   of  the    beak. 

6.  How  do  the  echelettes  differ  from  the  Creepers  properly  so  called  ? 

7.  How    are    Humming-birds  characterised  ?  What    are   their  hahits  ? 
Upon  what  do  they  feed  ?     What  are  t'oe  characters  of  the  Northern  Hum- 
ining-birds  ? 

8.  How  are  the  Hoopoes  distinguished  ? 

9.  How  are  birds  of  the  fatal  y  of  Syndactylae  characterised? 
10.  What  are  the  principal  genera  of  this  family  ? 


70  BEE.EATERS  —KINGFISHERS. 

In  the  Bee  eaters  it  is  of  moderate  size,  and  slightly  arcuate;  in 
the  Kingfishers,  long  and  straight,  and  in  the  Hornbills  of  a 
disproportionate  size,  and  surmounted  by  an  enormous  protu- 
berance. 

11.  The  Bee-eaters^— Merops,— have  a  moderate  sized  beak, 
which  is  trenchant,  pointed,  slightly  curved,  without  a  notch  or 
tooth,  and  with  an  elevated  edge ;  their  nostrils  are  partly  con- 
cealed by  hairs  directed  forwards;  the  external  toe  is  joined  to 
the  middle  one  as  far  as  the  second  articulation,  and  the  latter  is 
joined  to  the  external,  as  far  as  the  first  articulation.     The  Com- 
mon, Bee-eater, —  Merops  apiaster,  —  i\\e  only  one  found  in  Europe, 
has  a  fawn  coloured  back,  a  deep  marine  blue  front  and  belly,  and 
a  yellow  throat  surrounded  by  black ;  it  feeds  on  insects,  particu- 
larly wasps   and  bees,  which   it  seizes  while  on  the  wing.     It* 
constructs  its  nests  in  the  precipitous  banks  of  streams  and  large 
rivers,  into  which  it  digs  to  considerable  depths. 

12.  The  KINGFISHERS,— £lcedo,—(  Hate  3,  fig.   10.)— have   a 
quadrangular  beak,  which  is  long,  straight,  pointed  and  trenchant ; 
their  nostrils  are  almost  entirely  closed  by  a  naked   membrane ; 
their  legs   are  short,  and  bare  to  above  the  knee.     The  only 
species  found  in  Europe  is  the  JLlwdo  ispida,—\t  is  rather  larger 
than  a  Sparrow,  and  is  green,  undulated  with  black  above,  with 
a  stripe  of  deep  marine  .blue  along  the  back ;  reddish   beneath, 
with  a  ribbon  of  the  same  colour  on  each  side  of  the  neck.    The 
American  species,  the   tielted   Kingfisher, — JLlcedo  alcyon, — is 
crested,  and  of  a  bluish  slate  colour;  it  inhabits  all  the  northern 
part  of  the  American  continent.     His  delight  is  to  dwell   amidst 
the  most  sequestered  scenes,  on  the  borders  of  rivers  and  streams, 
abounding  in  small  fish  and  insects,  upon  which  he  feeds      By 
the  broken  or  rocky  bank  of  his  aquatic  retreat,  he   may   be 
frequently  seen  perched   on  some  dead  and   projecting  "branch, 
scrutinizing  the  waters  for  his  expected  prey ;  if  unsuccessful, 
he  courses  along  the  stream,  just  above  the  surface,    and    occa- 
sionally hovers  for  an  instant,  with  rapidly  moving  wings,  over 
the  spot   where   he  perceives  his  gliding   quarry;  in  the  next 
instant,  descending  with  a  quick  spiral  sweep,  he  seizes  a  fish 
with  which  he  rises  to  his  post,  and  swallows  in  an  instant.  When 
startled  from  the  perch,  on  which  he  spends  many  vacant  hours 
digesting  his  prey,  he  utters  commonly  a  loud,  harsh,  and  grating 

1 1.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Bee-caters  ?     What  are  the  characters 
ef  the  Common  Bee-eater?     What  are  its  habits? 

12.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Kingfishers  ?     How  is  the  European 
Kingfisher  characterised  ?     In  what  respects  does  the  Belted  Kingfisher  differ 
from  the  European  species  ?     What  are  its  habits? 


HORNB1LLS.— CLIMBERS.      71 

cry,  very  similar  to  the  interrupted  creakings  of  a  watchman's 
rattle,  and  almost,  as  it  were,  ttte  vocal  counterpart  to  the  watery 
tumult  amidst  which  he  usually  resides.  The  nest  is  burrowed 
in  some  dry  bank  above  the  reach  of  inundation,  to  a  depth  of 
five  or  six  feet.  The  female  lays  six  or  seven  white  eggs,  and 
is  assisted  by  the  male  in  the  incubation,  which  continues  about 
sixteen  days. 

13.  The  Calaos,  or  TJornbifls,—  Buceros, — are  large  birds  of 
India  and  Africa,  remarkable  for  their  enormous  dentated  beak, 
which  is  more  or  less  arcuate,  surmounted  by  a  crest  or  promi- 
nence, often  as  large  as  the  beak  itself.  (Plate  3.  fig.  12.)  These 
singular  birds  hunt  mice,  reptiles,  small  birds,  and  even  attack 
dead  bodies. 


ORDER   OF    SCANSORLE     OR    ZYGODACTYLJE. 


14.  In  birds  of  this  order  the  external  toe  is  directed  back- 
wards like  the  thumb,   which  arrangement  gives  them  a  more 
solid  support,  and  of  which  some  genera  take  advantage   in 
clinging  to,  and  climbing  the  trunks  of  trees.  (Plate  k<fig.  5,  6, 
7,  and  10.)     It  is  from  this  circumstance  they  have  obtained  the 
common  name  of  Climbers,  although,  strictly  speaking,  it  is  not 
applicable  to  all  of  them,  as  there  are  many  birds  that  truly  climb, 
which,  owing  to  the  disposition  of  their  toes,  do  not   belong  to 
this  group.     Every  bird  that  has  two  toes  directed  forward,  and 
two  backwards,  belongs  to  the  order  of  Scansoriae,  or  Climbers. 
The  habits  of  most  of  the  species  that  belong  to  it  are  not  known  ; 
and  they  vary  in  almost  every  genus, 

15.  The  Climbers  generally  nest  in  the  hollows   of  old  trees; 
their  powers  of  flight  are  middling ;   like  the  PasserinaB  they  feed 
on   insects,  or  fruits  according  as  their  beak   is  more  or  less 
strong.     It   is  remarked  that'  in   most  of  the   genera   that  the 
sternum  has   two   notches  behind,    which    conformation    is    in 
accordance  with  the  little  strength  of  the  muscles  of  their  wings. 

16.  The  principal  genera  may  be  distinguished  by  the  follow- 
ing characters : 

n.  What  are  Hornbills?     Where  are  they  found  ? 

14,  How  are  the  Seansorice  characterised  ?     Do  all  climbing  birds  belong 
to  the  order  of  Scansorice  ? 

15,  Upon  what  do  the  Scansori®  fted  ?     Are  they  very  powerful  in  their 
wings  ? 

16,  What  are  the  principal  genera  of  the  order  of  Scansoriee  ? 


72        WOODPECKERS.— WRYNECKS 

(Genera,) 

f  And  angular;   tongue  very  extensible,  (  w 
and  armed  with  spines  at  the  tip.       \  W 
Straight,  <{ 

And  roundfd ;   tongue  ver\T  extc  nsibl->,  )  ,,T 
{  but  without  spines.  '[WRYNECKS. 

f  Moderate,  and  slightly  Arcuate,  }•  CUCKOOS. 

Arcuate,  ^   Large,  rounded  on  all  sides,  and  hooked,  }•  PARROTS. 
(_  Almost  as  long  as  the  body,  J>  TOUCANS. 

17.  The   WOODPECKERS,—  Picns, — are   distinguished  by   their 
long,  straight  black  beak,  which  is  adapted  for  piercing  the  bark 
of  trees  ;  by  their  slender  tongue,  armed  near  the  end  with  spines 
curved  backwards,  which  can  be  extended  considerably  beyond 
the  beak;  (Plate  1,  fig.  3.)  and  by  their  tail,  which  is  composed 
of  ten  quills  with  stiff  and  elastic  stalks,  which  serves  them  as  a 
support  when  they  climb  trees  (Plate!  ,jig.  9.)     All  these  birds 
are  climbers,  and  have  a  family  likeness  to  each  other.     They  all 
have  the  habit  of  tapping  and  raising  up  the  bark  of  trees  to  seize 
the  insects  which  it  conceals,  and,  after  having  struck  on  one  side, 
of  quickly  running  to  the  opposite,  to  seize  the  insects,  which  the 
noise  may  have  caused  to  run  away.     It  is  erroneously  believed 
that  they  can  in  this  way  pierce  trees  entirely  through.     Most 
Woodpeckers  are  marked  with  red,  either  on  the  head  or  body ; 
almost  all  of  them  are  streaked  or  speckled  with  brown  on   the 
ground  colour  of  their  plumage      Their  cry  is  sharp,  and  their 
flight  heavy.     They  are  lean,  little  esteemed,  and  inhabit  all  parts 
of  the   world,   both   within  and   without  the  equatorial  regions, 
except  New  Holland.     There  are  several  species  of  Woodpeckers 
in  the  United  States,  the  most  common  of  which,  are  the  Flicker, 
or  Golden  Winged    Woodpecker, —  Pictts  auratm,  —  and   Red- 
Headed  Woodpecker, — Picns  rrythrocephalus. 

Birds  resembling  Woodpeckers  are  known,  which  have  but 
three  toes, two  of  which  are  directed  forward,  and  one  backwards. 

18.  The  WRYNECKS, —  Yunx,— (Plate  4,  fig.  5.)  have  the  pro- 
tractile tongue  of  the  Woodpeckers,  but  without  the  spines  ;  their 
straight  and  pointed  beak   is  nearly  round,    without  any  well 
marked  angles,  and  is  not  sufficiently  strong  to  penetrate  and 
raise  the  bark  of  trees;  like  the  Woodpeckers,   they   live   on 
insects,  but  climb  much  less. 


17.  How  are  Woodpeckers  distinguished  ?  What  are  their  habits?    CTpon 
what  do  they  feed  ? 

18.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Wrynecks  ? 


CUCKOOS.— TOUCANS. J73 

19.  The  European  Wryneck, —  Yvnx  torqiiilla, — is  of  the  size 
of  a  lark ;  it  is  brown  above,  streaked  in  little   blackish    waves, 
and  longitudinal  meshes  of  fawn  colour  and  biack ;  beneath  it  is 
whitish  with  transverse  blackish    stripes.     This  bird,  which  is 
solitary  in  its  habits,  loves  the  mountain  woods,   and  makes   its 
appearance  in  France,  in  May,  and  departs  again  in  September; 
without   making  a  nest,  it  lays  in  holes  in  trees  soon  after  its 
arrival.     The  Wryneck  derives  its  name  from  a  habit,   which  is 
peculiar  to  it,  of  twisting  and  turning  the  neck  to  one  side,   and 
behind,  while  the  head  is  turned  towards  the  back  and  the  eyes 
half  closed. 

20.  The  CUCKOOS, — Cuculus, — have  a  moderate  beak,  well  cleft, 
and  slightly  arcuate  j  the  tarsi  are  short,  and  the  tail  long,  com- 
posed of  ten  quills.  (I J  late  4,  Jig.  6.)     They  are  birds  of  passage, 
and  live  on  insects.     The  female  makes  no  nest,  and  takes  no 
care  of  her  young ;  she  deposites  her  eggs  in  the  nests  of  other 
birds,   most  frequently  in  that  of  the  Faurette.     The  strange 
nurse,  to  whom  the  Cuckoo  confides  her  eg<zs,  becomes  not  only 
the  best  of  mothers  for  the  young  progeny  that  does  not  belong 
to  her,  but  to  take  care  of  them  she  neglects  her  own  eggs,  and 
only    hatches   a  part   of  them.     It  is  remarked  that  the  young 
Cuckoos  raise  up  the  young  ones  of  the  Fauvette,  and  push  them, 
out  of  the  nest,  that  they  may  not  share  the  attentions   of  their 
common  nurse.     These  birds  remain  in  the  nest  more  than  three 
weeks  after  their  birth,  and  for  five  weeks  longer  their  adopted 
mother  supplies  them  with  food.     The  American  species,  on  the 
contrary,  are  faithfully   paired,  and  take   care  of  their  young. 
The  Yellow -billed  Cuckoo,  or  Rain  Croiv,  —  Cuculus  amcricauits, 
— is  dark  grayish-brown,  with  bronzy   reflections,   and   white 
beneath. 

21.  The  TOUCANS,  —  Rumphastos,— (Plate  4,  fig.  10.)  are  easily 
recognised  by  their  enormous  beak,  which  is  almost  as  large  and 
as  long  as  the  body  ;  internally  it  is  light  and  cellular,   arcuate 
towards   the   end,    and  irregularly  dentate  on  the  edge ;  their 
nostrils,  which  are  surrounded  by  a  membrane,  are  concealed 
behind  the  horny  mass  that  sheathes  the  front.     Their  tongue  is 
long,   narrow,  and  furnished  on    each  side  with  barbs,  like  a 
feather.     These  singular  animals  inhabit  only  the  hottest  parts  of 
America  ;  they  live  in  troops,  and  feed  on  fruits  and  insects. 

19.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  European  Wryneck  ?     What   are  its 
habits?     From  what  circumstance  does  it  derive  its  name  ? 

20.  What  are  the  characters  of  Cuckoos  ?     What  are   the  habits   of  tho 
female  ?     How  does  the  American  differ  from  the  European  species? 

21.  How  are  Toucans  characterised  ?     What  are  their  habits  ? 


74  PARROTS. 


They  seek  the  nests  of  other  birds,  and  devour  their  eggs,  and 
their  recently  hatched  young.  When  they  obtain  their  prey,  they 
do  not  attempt  to  grind  it  in  their  beak,  because  its  structure  pre- 
vents; but  they  toss  it  into  the  air,  and,  receiving  it  as  it  falls, 
swallow  it  whole. 

22.  The  PARROTS,—  Psittacm,— (Plate  4,yfy.  7.  and  8.)  form 
a   genus,   numerous   in  species,  which  are  found  in  all  warm 
countries.     They  have  a  large,  hard,  solid  beak,  which  is  rounded 
every  where,  and  surrounded  at  its  base  by  a  membrane  through 
which  the  nostrils  are  pierced  ;  their  tongue  is  thick,  fleshy,  and 
round  ;  their  feet  are  short  and  strong.     They  feed   on   fruits, 
and  climb  trees,  assisting  themselves  with  their  feet  and  beak. 
They   readily  become  familiar,  and  some  species   imitate    the 
human  voice  very  well ;  but  their  clamorous  disposition  renders 
them  disagreeable  in  the  house. 

23.  The  plumage  of  Parrots  varies  in  colour;  it  is   generally 
remarkable  for  its  clear  and  vivid  tints :  frequently,  green  pre- 
dominates; while  in  certain  species,  on  the  contrary,  red  is  the 
prevailing  colour.     From  their  intelligence,  these  birds  seem  to 
claim  a  place  at  the  head  of  their  class,  and  form  the  connecting 
link  between  it  and  the  superior  beings  in  the  scale   of  animals. 
They  learn  to  talk,  retain  airs,  and  are  in  short,   susceptible  of 
education  ;  they  convey  their  food  to  the  beak  with  their  claws; 
they  are  frugivorous,  and  also  feed  on  buds,  tender  bark,  roots, 
and  sweet  juices  of  plants.     This  genus  is  divided  into  Maccaws, 
Paroquets,  Parrots  properly  so  called,  Cockatoos,  &c. 

24.  The  Maccaws, — Arc,— (Plate  4,  fig.  7.)  have  a   wedge- 
shaped  tail,  which  is  longer  than  the  body,  a  strong  beak  and  a 
naked  face  ;  they  are  all  American.     The  Jlra  aracari,  or  Blue 
MaccctW) — is  one  that  is  most  frequently  seen  in  France,  where 
it  is  produced  in  the  domestic  state  ;  it  is  from  thirty  to   thirty- 
two  inches  in  length.     All  the  upper  parts,  that  is,  the  top  of  the 
head,  the  back  of  the  neck,  the  back,  the  rump,  the  wings,  and 
all  the  top  of  the  tail  are  of  a  brilliant  azure  blue.     The  chest  and 
all  the  under  part  of  the  body  are  of  a  bright  yellow.     The  naked 
space  on  the  cheeks  is  of  considerable  extent,  and  is  of  a   rosy 
white  colour,  with  three  little  horizontal  lines  of  black  feathers ; 
the  throat  is  surrounded  by  a  broad  greenish  collar. 

25.  The  Paroquets,  also  have  a  wedge  shaped  tail,   which  is 
sometimes  longer  than  the  body,  sometimes  of  the  same  length, 

22.  How  are  Parrots  distinguished  ?     What  are  their  habits? 

23.  What  is  the  colour  of  the  plumage  of  Parrots?     For  what  are  these 
birds  particularly  remarkable  ?     How  is  the  genus  of  Parrots  divided  ? 

24.  How  are  Maccaws  distinguished  ?     What  are  the  characters  of  the 
Blue  Maccaw? 

25.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Paroquets  ? 


ORDER  OF  GALLINACE.E. 75 

and  sometimes  shorter ;  they  have  a  moderate  beak,  and  the  face 
is  ordinarily  feathered. 

«&6.  [The  Carolina  Parrot^ — Psittacus  carolincnsis,-—is  green  ; 
the  head  and  neck  yellow ;  forehead  and  cheeks  orange ;  tail 
elongated.  Of  the*more  than  two  hundred  known  species  of 
this  brilliant  genus,  it  is  the  only  one,  found  inhabiting  the  United 
States.  It  is  rarely  met  with  north  of  Virginia.] 

27.  The  Parrots  properly  so  called,  have  a  short,  square  tail, 
a  stout  and  strongly  hooked    beak,  the  face  feathered,  a  large 
head,  and  a  stout  body.     They  all  inhabit  the  torrid  zone. 

28.  The    Gray    Carrot,    or    ,/ac«,  —  Psittacus    erylhacus, — is 
entirely  ash-colour  with  a  red  tail.     It  is  originally  from  Africa, 
and  is  much  prized  on  account  of  its  gentleness,  its   attachment 
to  its  master,  and  the  facility  with  which  it  learns  to  speak. 

29.  The  name  of  Amazonian  Parrots  is  given  to   those  that 
are  very  large,  with  a  stout  body  and  green  plumage. 

30.  The  Cockatoos,  have  the  head  ornamented  with  a  tuft  of 
feathers.  (Plate  4,  fig.  8.)     The  plumage  of  the  greater  number 
is  white,  and  of  all  the  various  species,  they  are  the  most  docile. 

LESSON    VI. 

ORDER  OP  CALLINACE/E.— -  Zool -gical  Characters. —  Habits. — 
Hoccos.  — Peacocks,  ( Common  Peacock. )  —  Turkey  —  Guinea- 
fowl. —  Genus  of  Pheasants,  (The  Common  Cock,  Common 
Pheasant,  Golden  Pheasant.) — Genus  of  Grouse,  (The  Great 
Heath-cock,  Partridge,  Quail. — Genus  of  Pigeons. — Habits.—' 
Carrier  Pigeons.  

ORDER    OF    GALLINAC3JES. 

1.  The  Order  of GaHinaceae comprises:  Those  terrestrial  birds 
which  have  a  short  or  moderate  beak,  vaulted  above  ;  the  nostrils 
pierced  through  a  membranous  space,  and  covered  by  a  cartila- 
ginous scale,  the  body  heavy,  and  the  wings,  in  general,  short. 

2.  These  birds  are  essentially  granivorous,  and  are  provided 
with  a  very  strong  muscular  gizzard  ;  they    delight  in  seeking 
their  food  on  the  ground  amidst  dust.     Their  sternum  is  weakened 
by  two  large  notches  which  occupy  its  posterior  part  on   each 
side;  their  inferior  larynx  is  very  simple,  and  not  one   of  them 
sings  agreeably. 

526.  What  is  the  Carolina  Parrot? 

27.  Flow  are  Parrots  properly  so  called,  distinguished  ? 

28.  For  what  is  the  Gray  Parrot  esteemed  ? 

29.  What  are  Amazonian  Parrots? 

30.  What  are  Cockatoos  ? 

1.  What  birds  are  comprised  in  the  Order  of  Gallinaces  ? 

2.  What  are  the  general  characters  of  the  Gallinacese  ? 

7 


76 GALLINACEOUS  BIRDS. 

3.  Most  of  our  poultry  belongs  to  this  order ;  and   no   other 
affords  man  so  many  resources  for  his  wants  or  his   pleasures. 
The  flesh  of  many  of  the  Gallinaceae  supplies  a  light  and  whole- 
some meat  which  nourishes  without  overloading  the  stomach. 
Their  feathers  are  applied  to  different  purposes ;  they  are  employed 
as  ornaments,  and  also  in  the  useful  arts.     These  birds  are  almost 
all  from  the  warm  countr  ies  of  both  continents. 

4.  This  order  is  divided  into  two  families,  as  follows: 

5.  First.  The  GALLINACE^J  PROPERLY   so    CALLED,  having  the 
anterior  toes  united  at  their  base  by  a  short  membrane,  which  is 
dentate  on  the  edges  ;  the  tail  is,  generally,  composed  of  fourteen 
or  a  greater  number  of  quills. 

6.  Second.  The  PIGEONS,  having  the  toes  entirely  divided,  and 
the  tail*  formed  of  twelve  quills. 

FAMILY  OF  GALLINACEJE  PROPERLY  SO  CALLED. 

7.  The  Gallinacea?  properly  so  called,  have  a  short,  convex 
beak  with  the  upper  mandible   arched   or  vaulted,  and  curved 
from  its  base  to  the  point ;  their  nostrils,  which  are   pierced 
through  a  broad  membranous  space,  are  covered  by  a   cartila- 
ginous scale ;  their  three  front  toes  are  united  by  a  short   mem- 
brane ;  the  posterior  toe  articulates  high  on  the  tarsus,  above  the 
articulations  of  the  anterior  toes :  sometimes,  though  rarely,  the 
posterior  toe  is  entirely  wanting,  or  it  is  very  small,  and  in  many 
species,  principally  in  the  male,  we  remark  on  the  posterior  part 
of  the  tarsus,  above  the  thumb,  a  process  or  projection  called  a 
spur,  formed  of  a  bony  spine,  covered  externally  with  horn,  more 
or  less  pointed,  according  to  the  species,  and  which  increases  in 
length  as  the  animal  advances  in  age.  (Plate  4,  fig.  1 1,  and  Plate, 
7,  Jig.  15.)     The  tarsi  are  short  or  of  moderate  length,  and  the 
feet  are  adapted  for  running  or  walking.     These  birds  are  very 
heavy  ;  the  body  is  fleshy,  and  the  wings  short,  which,  with  the 
weakness  of  their  pectoral  muscles,  renders  their  flight  laborious. 
They  are  all  pvlveralors,  that  is,  they  love  to  scratch  the  ground, 
and  wallow  in  the  dust ;  they  generally   feed  on  grains,  some- 
times on  insects,  and  many  species,  on  berries  and   buds.     To 
swallow  fluids  when  introduced  into  the  beak,  they  elevate  their 
head  in  the  air.     The  females  live  in  troops  with  a  single  male. 
Their  nest  is  almost  always  made  without  art,  upon  the  ground, 
and  the  male  takes  no  part,  either  in  its  construction  or  in  the 

3.  To  what  uses  are  birds  of  this  order  applied? 

4.  How  is  this  order  divided? 

5.  What  are  the  general  characters  of  the  Gallinacese  properly  so  called  ? 

6.  What  are  the  general  characters  of  Pigeons  ? 

7.  How  are  the  Gallinaceee  properly  so  called  characterised  ?    What  aro 
their  habits  ? 


GALLINACEOUS  BTRDS. 77 

incubation  of  the  eggs,  the  number  of  which  is  generally  con- 
siderable. So  soon  as  the  young  ones  escape  from  the  shell,  they 
walk,  eat  alone,  and  abandon  the  nest  to  follow  their  mother. 
They  remain  together  forming  a  family  until  the  following  spring, 
when  they  separate.  The  sexes  differ  very  much  from  each 
other  in  their  plumage,  at  least,  until  they  have  attained  an 
advanced  age,  when  the  female  sometimes  appears  in  the  plumage 
of  the  male,  which  is  more  brilliant ;  they  also  differ  in  size,  the 
female,  in  most  species  being  smallest. 

8.  The  principal  genera  composing  this  family  may  be  recog- 
nised by  the  following  characters : 

(jallinacese 
properly  so  called,  having  a  tail 


tj-Scrz       i's'ssB: 

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8.  What  are  the  principal  genera  of  the  Family   of  Gallinacete  properly 
so  called? 


78 HOCCm-: TURKE  VS.— PEACOCKS. _ 

9.  The  Hoccos, — Elector, —  are  large  gallinaceous  birds  of 
America,  analogous  to  Turkeys,  with  a  large  round  tail,  com- 
posed of  twelve*  large,  stiff  quills;  their  beak  is  thick,  stout, 
compressed  at  the  sides,  surrounded  at  the  base  by  a  naked 
skin,  which  is  sometimes  gibbous ;  the  tarsi  are  elongate  and 
without  spurs  ;  they  have  four  toes,  three  before  and  one  behind, 
the  latter  resting  a  part  of  its  length  on  the  ground.  These 
peaceful  birds  are  easily  tamed,  and  keep  in  great  forests  and  on 
mountains.  They  seek  their  food  on  the  ground,  and  perch  upon 
the  highest  trees  Some  nest  on  the  large  branches  of  trees,  and 
others  on  the  ground.  Their  nest  is  composed  externally  of 
dried  branches  and  moss,  and  internally  of  leaves;  they  lay  from 
two  to  eight  eggs  In  some  parts  of  America  Hoccos  are  reared 
as  poultry.  Their  head  is  ornamented  with  a  tuft  of  elevated 
feathers  which  are  curled  at  the  end. 

10.  TURKEYS, —  lltli -utiiis,  —  have  the  head  and  top  of  the  neck 
covered  by  a  papillated  skin  which  is  destitute  of  fenthers;  under 
the  throat,  there  is  an  appendage  which  hangs  from  the  neck,  and 
on  the  front,  another  conical  appendage  which  lengthens  and 
swells  in  the  mab  during  excitement.     A  pencil  of  stiff  hairs  or 
bristles  hangs  from  the  lower  part  of  the  neck  of  the  male ;  the 
tail  coverts,  which  are  shorter  and  stiffer  than  in  the  Peacock, 
can  be  erected  in  the  same  manner,  so  as  to  form  a  circle ;  the 
males  have  feeble  spurs.     Turkeys,  of  which  only   two  species 
are  known,  are  originally  from   America,    whence   the   Jesuit 
missionaries  introduced  them  into  Europe      The   first   Turkeys 
appeared  in  France  in    1570,  and  were  served  at  the  wedding 
of  Charles  IX.     They  have  been    naturalised  in  all  climates  on 
account  of  the  excellence  of  their  flesh. 

1 1.  PEACOCKS, — Paio. — have  a  moderate,  conical,  curved  beak, 
which  is  naked  at  the  base;  the  superior  mandible  is  convex  and 
vaulted ;  the  head,  which  is  covered  with  feathers,  is  ornamented 
with  a  crest ;  the  tarsi  are  armed  behind  with  a  conical  spur ; 
but  the  most  remarkable  characteristic  of  these  birds  is,  that  the 
upper  tail  coverts  in  the  male,  are  longer  than  the  quills,  and  may 
be  elevated  when  he  spreads  his  tail       The  Common  Peacock, — 
Pavo  cri*tuttiSi — has  the  head   crowned  with  a» crest  of  twenty- 
four  straight  feathers,  and  the  feathers  of  the  rump,  which  have 
a  floating  or  loose  beard,  are  of  unequal  size,  being  shorter  in 


9.  What  are  the  characters  of  Hoccos  ?     What  are  their  habits  ? 

10.  How  are  Turkeys  characterised  ?     To  what   part   of  the    world  are 
they  indigenous  ?     When  were  Turkeys  fit  si  used  in  France  ? 

11.  How  are  Peacocks  characterised  ?     What   are  the    characters  of  the 
Common  Peacock  ?     Are  they  found  wild  in  any  part  of  the  world  ? 


PINTADOS.— PHEASANTS. 79 

proportion  as  they  are  superior,  and  each  one  is  terminated  by 
numerous  brilliant  metallic  circles ;  the  female  is  destitute  of  this 
ornament,  the  richness  and  beauty  of  which,  known  throughout 
the  world,  are  beyond  description,  particularly  when  the  bird 
spreads  its  tail.  The  Peacock  is  still  widely  diffused  in  the  wild 
state,  in  the  north  of  India,  and  in  most  parts  of  the  Indian 
archipelago. 

12.  The  PINTADOS,  or  GUINEA-FOWLS, — Numida, —  (Plate  5, 
Jig.  1.)  -have  a  naked  head  with  fleshy  wattles  on  the  lower  part 

of  the  cheeks,  and  the  cranium  is  generally  surmounted  by  a 
callous  crest;  their  feet  are  without  spurs;  their  tail  is  short 
and  pendent ;  'and  the  feathers  of  the  rump  give  the  body  a 
rounded  form. 

13.  AH  the  Pintados  are  originally  from  Africa;  they   live    in 
numerous  troops  under  bushes,  and  in  copses,  where  they  seek 
berries  and   small  snails  on  which  they   feed.     The  European 
species   have   been  transported   to   the   New  World,  where,  in 
many  places,  they  have  become  naturalised  in  the  wild  state. 

14.  PHEASANTS,—  Phasian us, — (Plate  4,  fig.    11.)  are   naked 
around  the  eyes,  and  the  cheeks  are  covered  by  a  red  skin,  or  by 
very  short  feathers ;  they  have  no  crest,  and  the  lower  mandible 
is  without  wattles;  the 'tail  quills,  eighteen  in  number  in  most  of 
the  species,  are  placed  on  each  other  in  two  layers  like  shingles 
on  the  roof  of  a  house,  or  in  other  words,  the  tail  is  tectiform, 
and  maintained  in  a  horizontal  position. 

This  genus  is  divided  into  many  sub-genera,  among  which  we 
will  cite  the  Cocks,  and  Pheasants  properly  so  called. 

15.  The  Cocks, — Callus, — have   a    beak   naked  at  the  base, 
furnished  with  two  pendent  and  compressed  caruncles  ;  the  head 
is   surmounted  by  a  fleshy  crest,  or  a  bundle  of  feathers ;  the 
tarsi  are  armed  with  long,  curved  spurs,  and  only  the  end  of  the 
thumb  rests  on  the  ground;  the  wings  are  short ;  the   quills   of 
the  tail,  fourteen   in  number,  form  two    vertical  planes,  placed 
back  to  back;  in  the  male  the  coverts  of  the  latter  are  prolonged 
into  an  arch  over  the  tail  proper. 

16.  The    Common    Coc/i,—J*hasianus  gallus,—  the   female  of 
which  is  called  a  Hen,  is  originally  from  India ;  it  is  still  met 
with  wild,  in  the  mountains  of  Hindoostan,  but  in  the  domestic 


12.  How  are  Guinea-fowls  characterised  ? 

13..  To  what  country  did  the  Pintados  originally  belong ?     What  are  their 
habits  ? 

14.  What  are  the  characters  of  Pheasants? 

15.  How  are  the  Cocks  characterised  ? 

16.  To  what  country  does  the  Common  Cock  belong  ? 


PHEASANTS. 


state,  it  is  spread  throughout  the  world.     There   exists   a   great 
number  of  varieties  of  it. 

17.  The  Pheasants  properly  so  cdhi^  have  a  long,  cuneiform 
tail,  each  of  the  quills  of  which  being  inclined  on  two  planes,  cover 
each  other  like  the  shingles  of  a  roof.     To  this  group  belongs 
the  Common  Pheasant  of  Europe,  which  is  also  originally  from 
Asia,  and  which  is  also  remarkable  for  the  beauty  of  its  plumage. 
In  the  male,  the  top  of  the  head  and  the  upper  part  of  the  neck 
are  of  a  silver  gray,  which,  in  the  reflections  of  light,    seems  to 
change  to  blue.     The  feathers  of  the  chest,  of  the  shoulders,  of 
the  middle  of  the  back,  as  well  as  those  of  the  sHes  beneath  the 
wings,  have  a  blackish  ground  with  purple  edges  on  transverse 
lines  of  gold  colour  ;  the  plumage  of  the  female  is  not  so  beautiful 
as  that  of  the  male :  the  iris  is  yellow  and  the  eyes  are  placed 
between  two  parts  which  are  of  a  scarlet  colour.     It  is  said,  that 
the    Pheasant    was   originally  introduced   into  Europe    by    the 
Argonauts  from  the  banks  of  the  river  Phasis  in  Asia  Minor. 

18.  The    golden    /'h<>ai>ant, —  Wmsianm  pictus, —  (Plate  4. 
fig.  11.)  comes  from  China.     It  is  one  of  the  most  beautiful  birds 
known ;  the  belly  is  of  a  bright  red ;  a  tuft  of  golden  yellow 
reclines  from  the  top  of  the  head  ;  the  neck  is  surrounded  by  a 
magnificent  orange  collar,  sprinkled  with 'black;  the  upper  part 
of  the  back  is  green,  and  the  lower  part,  as  well  as  the  rump,  is 
yellow;  the   wings  are  bright  red  with  a  beautiful  spot  of  blue; 
the  tail,  which  is  very  long,  is  brown,  spotted  with  gray. 

19.  The  Jlr<j/it*,—Pha*iattUA  aigiis, — comes  from  the  south  of 
Asia.     The  head  and  neck  are  nearly  naked  ;  the  tarsi  are  with- 
out spurs,  and  the  secondary  feathers  of  the  wings   are  covered 
with  eye-like  spots,  which,  when  the  wings  are  spread,  give  the 
bird  a  remarkable  appearance 

20.  No  true  Pheasant  has  yet  been  discovered  in  America. 

21.  The  Grouse, —  Tetrao,— are  recognised  by  a  naked  and, 
ordinarily,  red  strip,  that  occupies  the  place  of  the  eye-brow.  They 
are  very  numerous  and  are   divided  into  many  sub-genera,  the 
principal  of  which  are  the  following : 

22.  1st.  The  Heath-Cocks,  havetfoe  tarsi  covered  with  feathers 
and  without  spurs,  the  toes  naked,  and  the  tail  round  or  forked  : 

17.  How  are  Pheasants  properly  so  called,  characterised?     From    what 
part  of  the  world  is  the  true  Pheasant  derived  ? 

18.  What  ;ire  the  characters  of  the  Golden  Pheasant? 

19.  How  is  the  Argus  recognised? 

20.  Is  there  any  true  Pheai-ant  in  America  ? 

21.  How  is  the  genus  of  Grouse  recognised?     What   are   the    principal 
sub-genera  ? 

22.  How  may  the  Heath-cocks  be  known  ? 


GROUSE.  81 


23.  2nd,  The  Ptarmigans,  or  White  Grouse,  which  have  the 
toes  feathered  as  well  as  the  legs ; 

24.  3d.  The  Partridge*,  the  tarsi  of  which  are  naked  like  the 
toes,  and  armed,  only  in  the  male,  with  short  spurs,  or  simple 
tubercles ; 

25.  4th.  The  Quails,  which  also  have  naked  tarsi  without 
spurs,  and  in  which,  the  eye-brow  is  not  red. 

26.  The  Heath-Cocks, —  Tetrao, — are  for  the  most  part  birds 
of  large  size  ;  there  is  one  species  in  France  which  is  larger  than 
the  Turkey,   and  even  larger  than  any  other  gallinaceous  bird. 
The  Gr.ettt  Heath-cock,— Tetrao  urogallus, — (Plate  5,  fig.    3.) 
The  plumage  of  the  male  is  slate  colour,  finely  and  transversely 
striped  with  black  ;  the  female,  which  is  a  third  smaller,  is  fawn 
colour,    with   transverse,   black   or   brown   lines.     The  young 
resemble  the  female  up  to  the  first  moulting.     This  bird  is  found 
in  considerable  numbers  in  Russia,  Siberia,  and  generally  in  all 
the  northern  parts  of  Europe  and  Asia ;  and  is  more   rare  in 
Germany,  Hungary,  and  France.     It  always  lives  in  the  same 
place,  inhabiting  through  preference,  mountain  forests,  and  feeds 
chiefly  on  berries,  buds,. young  shoots,  grains,  insects  and  worms. 
Its  flesh  is  delicious. 

27.  [The  Ruffed  Grouse, —  Tetrao  umbellus,—\$  mottled;  the 
tail  is  gray  or  ferruginous,  speckled  or  barred  with   black  ;  the 
male  has  a  ruff  of  broad  black  feathers  on  the  sides  of  the  neck ; 
in  the  female  the  ruff  is  smaller  and  dusky  brown.     It  is  known 
by  the  name  of  Pheasant,  in  the  Middle  and  Western  States,  and 
by  that  of  Partridge  in  New  England.     It  inhabits  the  American 
continent  from  Hudson's  Bay  to  Georgia,  but   is  most  abundant 
in  the  northern  and  middle  parts  of  the  United  States.     It  feeds 
chiefly  on  berries. 

28.  The  Pinnated  Grouse, —  Tetrao  cupido, — is  partly  crested 
and  mottled  ;  and  the  tail  is  rather  short  and  much  rounded. 
The  Grouse,  or  Prairie-Hen  t   is  confined  to   dry,   barren,    and 
bushy  tracts  of  small  extent,  and  in  several  places   it   is    now 
nearly  or  wholly  exterminated.     It  is  still  met  with  on  the  Grouse 
Planes  of  New  Jersey,  on  the  Bushy  Planes  of  Long  Island,  in 

23.  What  are  the  generic  characters  of  the  Ptarmigans? 

24.  How  are  the  Partridges  recognised  ? 

25.  How  are  the  Quails  recognise  d  ? 

26.  What   are   the   general    characters  of  Heath-cocks?     What  are  the 
characters  of  the  Great    Heath-Cock  ?     Where  is  it  found  ?     What  are  its 
habits  ?     Upon  what  does  it  feed  ? 

27.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Ruffed  Grouse  7     Where  is  it  found  ? 
By  what  other  names  is  it  known  ? 

28.  Where  is  the  Prairie-Hen  found  ? 


82 GROUSE-PARTRIDGES. 

similar  shrubby  barrens  in   Connecticut,  and  in   the   Island    of 
Martha's  Vineyard,  on  the  south  side  of  Massachusetts  Bay.] 

29.  The   Ptarmigans,  or    White  Grouse, — Lag  opus,— have  a 
round  or  square  tail,  and  often  become  white  in  winter.     [The 
Ptarmigan, —  Tetrao  lagopus, — constantly  resides  in  the -coldest 
arctic   deserts,  and  in  the  lofty  mountains  of  Central  Europe, 
where,  as  the  snow  begins  to  melt  away,  it  seeks  out  its  frozen 
bed,  by  ascending  to  the  limits  of  eternal  ice.     tt  is  common  to 
the  extreme  northern- regions  of  both  the  old  and  new  continent. 
It  feeds  on  many  kinds  of  berries,  heath,  young  shoots  of  pine, 
and    occasionally   eats   a  few   insects.     To   profect  themselves 
against  the  entreme  cold  of  the  climate,  Ptarmigans  dwell  in  the 
snow.     As  soon  as  they  leave  their  frozen  retreats  in  the  morn- 
ing, they  fly  vigorously-  upward  into  the  air,  shaking  the  snow 
from  their  warm  and  white  clothing.     They  are  much  esteemed 
as  food  in  every  country  where  they  occur,  and  are  commonly 
taken  in  nets.     Between  the  months  of  April  and  May,  it'is  said, 
that  as  many  as  ten  thousand  are  taken  for  the  use  of  the  Hud- 
son's Bay  settlement ;  and  in  Europe,  during  the  winter,  they 
are  carried  in  thousands  to  the  markets  of  Norway.] 

30.  Partridges  live  in  pairs,  and  keep  on  the  ground.     Two 
species  of  Partridge  are  common  in  France :  the  gray  and   the 
red.     The    Gray    Partridge,—  Tettao   cinereiis, — keeps   in   the 
fields ;  it  is  ashy  brown  elegantly  mingled  with  black  ;  the  tail  is 
short  and  the  legs  are  of  a  greenish  white ;  the  beak  and  feet 
are  ash-colour.     In  young  Partridges  there  is  observed,  between 
eye  and  ear,  a  naked  skin  which  is  of  a  brilliant  scarlet.     The 
male  has  on  the  breast  a  chestnut  coloured   spot    in  the  form 
of  a  horse  shoe.     The  female  is  distinguished  by  less  brilliant 
and  less  marked  colours.     She  lays  from  twelve  to  eighteen  eggs, 
and  makes  a  nest  on  the  ground  of  dry  leaves  and  moss.     The 
young  ones  run  the  moment  they  escape  from  the  shell,  a  part 
of  which    they  frequently  drag  after  them.     It  not  unfrequently 
happens  that  they  place  the  eggs  of  a  Partridge  under  a  hen,  who 
sits  upon,  and  takes  care  of  them  as  if  they  were  her  own. 

31.  The  Red  Partridge, —  Tetrao  rujits. — has   the  beak    and 
feet  red ;  it  prefers  to  keep  on  hills  and  elevated  .places ;  its  flesh 
is*  whiter  than  that  of  the  gray  Partridge. 

32.  [American   Partridges,  —  Orlyx,  —  have  the  beak  short, 
thick,  .higher  than  it  is  wide  ;  the  upper  mandible  curved  from  the 

29.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Ptarmigan  ?     Where  is  it  found  ? 

30.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Gray  Partridge  of  Europe  ? 

31.  How  is  the  Red  Partridge  distinguished  ? 

32.  What  are  the  characters  of  American  Partridges? 


QUAILS.— PIGEONS.  83 


base ;  no  naked   space  around  the  eye ;  the  nostrils  half  closed 
by  a  membrane.     The  tarsus  is  destitute  of  spur  or  tubercle. 

33.  These  birds  alight  on  low  trees  or  bushes,  sometimes  roost 
ing  in  them ;  they  also  dwell  on  the  ground,  both  by  night  and  day. 
They  are  usually  monogamous,  the  male  taking  charge  of,  and 
protecting  the  young,  which  associate  with  the  old  until  the  time 
of  pairing.     These  are  peculiar  to  America. 

34.  The  American  Partridge,  or  Q//az7, — Orti/xvirginiana,—~ 
is   without  a  crest ;  the  plumage  cinnamon  brown,  varied  with 
black  and  whitish ;  throat  white,  bounded  with  a  black  crescent ; 
beak  black ;  the  feet  ash  colour.  Though  the  Partridges  of  America 
are  exceedingly  prolific,  they  have  been  so  thinned  in  some  parts 
of  the  country,  that  sportsmen,  acquainted  with  their  local  attach- 
ments, have  been  known  to  introduce  them  into  places  for  breed- 
ing, to  prevent  their  threatened  extermination.] 

35.  The  Quatls. — Cotutnix, — are  smaller  than  Partridges,  and 
have  a  shorter  tail.     The   Common  Quail  of  Europe, — Tctrao 
catitrnix, —  has  a  brown  back,  waved  with  black  and  dotted  with 
white,  a  brown  throat,  and  a  whitish  eye-brow.    The  female  makes 
a  nest  like  the  partridge;  she  lays  six  or  seven  eggs   which  are 
of  a  gray   colour   with  brown  spots.     They  are  hatched  at  the 
end  of  about  three  weeks. 

36.  Quails  are  birds  of  passage,  and  celebrated  for  their  migra- 
tions ,  they  are  found  throughout  Europe,  and  in  most  parts   of 
the  United  States      In  the  autumn,  they  pass  in  immense  troops 
from  Europe,  across  the  Mediterranean  to  the  coast  of  Africa; 
they  return  in  the  spring,  and  at  that  time  they  rest   on  some 
one  of  the  Islands  of  the  archipelago. 

FAMILY  OF  PIGEONS. 

37.  The   PIGEONS, — Columba, — are  regarded   as  forming  the 
natural  link  or  transition  between  the  Passerinse  and  Gallinacea3. 

38.  Pigeons  have  a  moderate,  compressed,  straight,  vaulted 
beak,  which  is  curved  at  the  point,  (Plate  5,  fiy.  4. ;)  their  nostrils 
are  in  the  middle  of  the  beak,  pierced  through  a  soft  skin  and 
covered  by  a  cartilaginous  scale  which  is  inflated  or  bulged  at 
the  base   of  the  beak  ;  their  feet  are  frequently  red  ;  they  have 
three  toes  in  front,  which  are  entirely  separate,  and  a  posterior 

33.  What  are  thuir  habits  ? 

34.  What    ate  the   characters  of  the    American    Partridge    or    Quail? 
Whether  is  it  migratory  or  sedentary  in  its  habits? 

35.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  common  European  Quail  ? 

36.  What  are  the  habits  of  Quails  ? 

37.  What  relation  do  Pigeons  bear  to  the  Passerinse  and  Gallinacese  ? 

38.  What  are  the  characters  of  Pigeons?    What  are  their  habits? 


84  PIGEONS. 


toe  which  is  articulated  upon  the  same  plane  as  the  others.  They 
fly  well,  and  differ  very  much  from  the  Common  GalHnacece  in 
their  habits.  When  they  drink,  they  do  not  elevate  the  head 
as  the  latter  do,  and  they  ordinarily  perch  on  trees.  These  birds 
always  live  in  a  state  of  monogamy,  and  the  male  never  leaves 
his  female  companion.  They  evince  great  mutual  tenderness 
and  express  it  by  frequently  caressing  each  other,  and  by  the 
accents  of  their  voice,  the  modulation  and  tone  of  which  have 
been  designated  by  the  term  cooing.  Both  unite  in  the  construc- 
tion of  the  nest,  and  place  it,  according  to  the  species,  sometimes 
on  the  tops  of  the  highest  trees,  amongst  bushes,  or  even  on 
the  ground,  and  other  times  in  the  cavities  of  rocks.  This 
nest,  coarsely  constructed  of  small  branches  and  leaves,  is 
very  open,  and  ordinarily  receives  only  two  eggs,  upon  which 
the  male  and  female  alternately  sit.  One  of  these  two  eggs 
usually  gives  birth  to  a  male,  and  the  other  to  a  female :  and 
these  two  individuals  being  reared  together  remain  forever  after 
paired.  They  feed  their  young  by  disgorging  into  their  little 
throats,  grains  macerated  in  their  own  stomach,  and  which  they 
cause  to  regurgitate  into  the  beak  by  a  kind  of  contraction. 

39.  These  birds  form  but   a   single  genus;  among  the  wild 
species  in  Europe  are  the  Cushat,  the  Rock  Uove,  and  the  Turtle 
Dove. 

40.  Pigeons  are  reared  in  vast  numbers  in  the  domestic  state ; 
one  of  the  most  celebrated  races  is  the  Carrier  Pigeon*  which  is 
distinguished  from  all  others,  by   a  broad  naked  band  which 
surrounds  the  eye,  and  its  deep  black  plumage ;  it  is  remark- 
able for  its  rapid  flight,  and  for  the  singular  faculty  it  possesses  of 
again  finding  the  place  where  it  was   born,  or  where  it  left 
its  young,  after  having  been  carried  to  very  great  distances.     It 
has  been  often  employed  to  convey  letters,  and  it  has  been  known 
to  make  a  journey  of  upwards  of  a  hundred  leagues  in  a  few  hours. 

41.  [Among  the  American  species,  the  most  remarkable  is  the 
Passenger  Pigeon, — Culumba  migrutoria, — which  is  bluish  gray, 
with  a  white  belly  and  black  tail.     The  wild  Pigeon  of  America, 
it  is  estimated,  can  fly  several  hundred  miles  at  the  rate  of  a  mile 
a  minute.     The  whole  species  seems  to  be  always  congregated  in 
one  huge  flock,  composed  of  millions  of  individuals ;  and   they 
remain  in  one  locality  for  several  years,  and  then  leave   it   from 
dearth  of  food,   which  appears  to  be  the  sole  cause  that  deter- 
mines their  migrations.     They  feed  on  acorns  and  berries.] 

39.  What  number  of  genera  constitutes  the  family  of  Pigeons? 

40.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Carrier  Pigeon  ?  How  is  it  employed  ? 

41.  What    are   the   characters   of  the  Passenger  Pigeon  ?     What  are  ii» 
habits? 


WADING  BIRDS. 85 

LESSON    VII. 

ORDER  OP  GRALLATORIAE. —  Zoological   Characters.  —  Habits.— 

Division  into  eight  Families. 
FAMILY  OF  BREVIPPENNES. — Ostrich. — Organization. — Habits. — 

Cassowaries. 

FAMILY  OF  PRESSIROSTRES. —  Bustards. — Plovers. — Lapwings. 
FAMILY  OF  CULTRIROSTRES. — Cranes,  (Common  Crowe.) — Herons, 

(Common  Heron.) — Storks,  (Common  Stork.) — Spoonbills. 
FAMILY  OF  LONGIROSTRES, —  Genus  of   Curlews. — Ibis,   (  Sacred 

Ibis.) — Snipe,  (  Woodcock,  Common  Snipe.) — The  Jlvosets. 
FAMILY  OF  MACRODACTYLI. — Rails. —  Water-Hens. 
FAMILY  OF  FLAMINGOS. — Common  Flamingo  — Habits. 

ORDER    OF    GRALLATORIJE. 

1.  The  Order  of  Grallatoriae  is  composed  of  birds  that   have 
the  lower  part  of  the  leg  naked  like  the  tarsus,  (Plate  5,  fig. 
5,  to  11.)     Almost  all  these  birds  are  remarkable  for  the  length 
of  their  legs,  and  appear  as  if  they  were  mounted  on  stilts.  Their 
feet,  most  generally,   have  a  small  palmate  membrane  betwixt 
the   external  toes,  and  they  sometimes   are  without  a  thumb. 
Their  form  is  ordinarily  lank,  and  their  neck  is  very  long ;  their 
beak  varies  in  its  shape,  but  is  also,  in  general,  very  long. 

2.  Most  of  the  Grallatoriae,  which  are  also  called  Waders,   or 
beach  birds,  frequent  watery  places,  and  wade  in  shallow  waters 
to  seek  their  food  ;  with  some  exceptions,  they  all  feed  on  animal 
substances,  and  seek  fishes,  reptiles,  or  worms  and  insects,  accor- 
ding as  their  beak  is  strong  or  weak ;  a  small  number  of  them 
feed  on   grains  and   herbage,  and  these  only  live  remote  from 
water.     And  almost  all  these  birds  have  very  long  wings  ;  they 
fly    well,  and  extend  their  legs   behind   them  when  they  fly, 
whereas,  other  birds,  on  the  contrary,  fold  them  under  the  belly. 

3.  The  Grallatoriae,  which  build  their  nests  on  trees,  and   in 
elevated  situations,  are  monogamous,  and  feed  their  young  until 
they   are  able   to  fly:  almost  all  those  that  build  on  the  ground 
are  polygamous,  and  their  young  seek  their  own  food  soon  after 
birth. 

1.  What  are  the  general  characters  of  those  birds  that  belong  to  the  order 
of  Grallatoriae  ? 

2.  What  are  the  general  habits  of  the   Grallatoriae   or   Waders  ?    Upon 
what  do  they  feed  ? 

3.  In  what  respect  do  the  monogamous  differ  from  the  polygamous  Gral- 
latorice  ? 


ORDER  OF  GR\LLATORI^. 


4.  This  order  is  composed  of  five  principal  families,  and  three 
small  isolated  groups,  which  differ  too  much   from   the   other 
Grallatoriae,  to  be  comprised  in  the  preceding  divisions,  and  may, 
therefore,  be  considered  as  forming  so  many  separate  families. 

5.  The  five  principal  families,  which  are  characterised  accord- 
ing to  the  form  of  the  beak,  are  the  Brevipennes,  the  Pressiros- 
tres,  the  Cultrirostres,  the  Longirostres,  and  the  Macrodactyli. 

6.  The  three  accessory  families,  each  one  of  which  is   formed 
of  a  single  genus,  are  the  Sheath-bills,  or  Vaginals,  the  Glarioles, 
and  Flamingos. 

These  different  groups  may  be  distinguished  by  the  following 
Characters  :  GRALLATORI*.  having  wings 


4.  Into  how  many  families  is  the  order  of  Grallatorise  divided  ? 

5.  What  are  the  principal  families  ? 

6.  What  are  the  accessory  families  ? 


OSTRICHES.  87 


FAMILY  OF  BREVIPPENNES. 

7.  The  Brevipennes  (Plate  5,  fig.  5.)  are  very   large  birds 
that  are  entirely  incapable  of  flying,  and  have  rudimentary  wings 
only ;  but  they  are  remarkable  for  the  strength  of  their  posterior 
extremities,  which  renders  them   excellent  runners.     Here,  the 
muscles  of  the  chest  not  being  required,  as  is  the  case  in  other 
birds  to  make  the  strong  efforts  necessary  to  depress  the   wings 
during  flight,  are  very  small,  and  there  is  no  projecting  keel  in 
the  middle  of  the  sternum  for  their  attachment,  as  in  other  birds  ; 
this  bone  is  in  the  form  dfr  a  simple  shield.     It  is  to  be  observed 
also,  that  all  the  Brevipennes  want  the  thumb,  and  that,  both 'in 
the  form  of  their  beak  and  in  their  regimen,  they  are  very  analo- 
gous to  the  Gallinaceae.     This  family  is  composed  of  two  genera: 
the  Ostriches  and  the  Cassowaries.     The  first  have  broad,  flexi- 
ble feathers,  and  the  second  are  covered  with  narrow,  stiff  plumes, 
almost  like  bristles. 

8.  OSTRICHES, — Struthio, — (Plate  5.  Jig.  5.)    are   very   large 
birds  with  long  legs  and  tarsi,  a  long  slender  neck,  and  •  a  very 
small   head ;  they  have  only  rudimentary  wings,  composed   of 
loose,   flexible  feathers  with  isolated  barbs,  which  are  entirely 
unsuitable  for   flight,  but  which  these  animals  make  use  of  in 
running.     The  beak,  which  is  of  moderate  length,  is  soft  at  the 
end  ;  the  eye  is  large  and  the  lids  are   fringed  with  eye-lashes ; 
the  tongue  is  short  and   rounded  like  a   crescent ;  the  crop  is 
enormous,  the  gizzard  very  slrong,  and  the  intestines  volumi- 
nous ;  and  above  the  cloaca  their  is  a  sort  of  large  reservoir  in 
which  the  urine  accumulates  as  in  a  bladder ;  and   this   is  the 
only  bird  that  urinates. 

9.  Two  species  of  Ostriches  are  known:  one,  proper  to  the 
easjern  continent,  and  characterised  by  having  only  two   toes  ; 
the  other,  proper  to  America,  which  is  recognisable   by   having 
three  toes. 

10.  The  Ostrich  of  the  Eastern  Continent,— Struthio  camelus, 
— (Plate  5,  jig.  5.)  is  the  largest  of  birds  ;  it  attains  six  or  seven 
feet  in  height  and  weighs  as  much  as  eighty  pounds;  the  head 
and  neck  are  thinly  covered  with  feathers  ;  the  back,  breast  and 
belly  are  covered  with  black   mingled  with    white    and   gray 
leathers,  and  those  of  the  wings  and  tail   are    white ;  the  thighs 
are  almost  as  naked  as  the  neck,  and  of  the  two  toes  which  termi- 


7.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Brevipennes? 

8.  What  are  the  characters  of  Ostriches  ? 

9.  How  many  species  of  Ostriches  are  known  ?     How   are   they    Hi  tin- 
guished  ? 

10.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Ostrich  of  the  eastern  continent  ? 

8 


88 OSTRICHES.— CASSOWARIES. 

nate  the  foot,  the  external  one  is  but  half  the  length  of  the  other, 
and  without  a  nail. 

It.  This  bird  lives  in  numerous  troops  on  the  sandy  deserts 
of  Africa  and  Arabia  ;  it  is  essentially  herbivorous,  but  it  is  so 
voracious  that  it  indiscriminately  devours  everything  that  falls 
within  its  reach  until  its  stomach  is  filled ;  it  even  swallows 
stones,  fragments  of  metal,  pieces  of  wood,  and  animal  as  well 
as  the  vegetable  substances  upon  which  it  feeds ;  the  strength  of 
its  stomach  is  enormous.  It  can  run  more  rapidly  than  the 
fleetest  horse.  The  strength  of  this  aqjinal  is  astonishing ;  an 
Ostrich  with  two  men  on  its  back  has  been  known  to  run  faster 
than  an  excellent  English  courser. 

12.  The  eggs  of  the  Ostrich  weigh  nearly  three  pounds  each ; 
in  those   countries  which  are  not  very  warm,  the  female,  and 
even  the  male  sits  upon  them  ;  but  on  the  burning  deserts  near  the 
equator,  they  'leave  them  in  the  sand,  exposed  to  the  heat  of  the 
sun.     The  period  of  incubation  seems  to  be  about   six  weeks, 
and  the  young  are  feathered  when  born  and  able  to  run  at  once. 

13.  The  broad  flexible  feathers  of  the  wings  and  tail  of  the 
African  Ostrich  are  much  prized  as  ornaments. 

14.  The  American,  or  Three-toed  Ostrich, — Struthio  rhea, — 
is  more  than  one  half  smaller  than  that  of  the  eastern  continent ; 
its  plumage  is  grayish,  and  the  feathers  are  scarcely  of  any  value. 
It  abounds  in  Buenos  Ayres. 

15.  The   CASSOWARIES, — Casuarius, — are  recognised   at  first 
sight  by  the  feathers,  the  barbs  of  which  being  so  lightly  fringed 
that  at  a  distance  they  resemble  pendent  hairs ;  their   wings  are 
even  shorter  than  those  ef  the  Ostrich,  and  are  totally  useless 
even  in  running. 

16  Two' species  are  known,  namely;  the  Emeu,  or  crested 
Cassowary,  and  the  Cassowary  of  New  Holland. 

17.  The  Emeu ,  or  Crested  Cassowary,  — Strnthio  casuarins, — 
is  almost  as  large  as  the  Ostrich  of  the  eastern  continent,  but 
not  so  tall ;  it  is  remarkable  on  account  of  the  azure  blue  and 
red  skin  that  covers  the  head  and  part  of  the  neck  ;  for  its  pen- 
dent caruncles  like  those  of  a  Turkey,  and  for  a  sort  of  helmet 
or  crest,  formed  by  a  bony  prominence,  covered  with  horn,  which 

11.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Ostrich  of  the  old  world  ? 

12.  What  is  the  size  of  the  eggs  of  the  Ostrich  ? 

33.  The  feathers  of  whit  part  of  the  Ostrich  are  used  for  ornament? 

14.  How  does  the  American  Ostrich  differ  from  the   Ostrich    of  the  old 
world  ? 

15.  How  are  the  Cassowaries  recognised  ? 

16.  What  species  of  Cassowary  are  known  ? 

17.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Emeu  ? 


BUSTARDS.  89 


surmounts  the  head.  The  feathers  of  the  body  are  black,  and 
for  the  most  part  double.  It  runs  almost  as  rapidly  as  the  Ostrich. 
It  inhabits  the  Indian  archipelago. 

18.  The  Cassowary  of  New  Holland, — Casuarius  Novce  Hoi' 
landice, — is  of  a  brownish  gray,  and  almost  the  whole  head   as 
well  as  the  neck,  is  covered  with  fringed  feathers.     Its  speed  is 
greater  than  that  of  the  preceding  species.     Its  flesh  resembles 
beef. 

FAMILY  OF  PRESSIROSTRES. 

19.  The  Pressirostres,  like  the  Brevipennes,  and  many  of  the 
Longirostres,  are  high  on  their  legs,  and  without  a   thumb,   or 
the  thumb  is  too  short  to  touch  the  ground  ;  their  beak    is  of 
moderate  length  and  sufficiently  strong  to  dig  the  earth  in  search 
of  worms  ;  their  wings  are  sometimes  short,  but  can  always  be 
used  in  flight.  (Plate  5,  /*#.  6,  and7.) 

20.  This  family  is  composed  of  the  Bustards,  the  Plovers,  the 
Lapwings,  and  some  other  genera,  the  characters  of  which   are 
as  follows : 

(Genera.) 
Very  short, .     -     .      ^          BUSTARDS. 

I  Moderate.  C  Without  a  thumb  }•          PLOVERS. 
/  With  a  thumb,      }•          LAPWINGS. 
Strong  and  pointed,      -    .      }•  OYSTER-CATCHERS. 

21.  The  BUSTARDS, — Otis, — are  large,  heavy  birds  that  resem- 
ble the  Gallinaceae  in  the  massive  form  of  their   bodies,  and   in 
having  the  upper  mandible  slightly  vaulted.     Their    wings  are 
short,  and  they  fly  but  little  ;  most  commonly  like  the  Ostriches, 
they  employ  them  only  to  accelerate  their  speed  when  running. 
Their  food  consists  of  grains,  herbs,  worms  and  insects. 

Two  species  are  found  in  Europe,  namely  ;  the  great  Bustard, 
and  the  Little  Bustard. 

22.  The  Great  Bustard,— Otis  tarda,— which  is  of  a   bright 
fawn  colour,  crossed  with  numerous  black  streaks  on   the  back, 
and  grayish  on  the  rest  of  the  body,  attains  to  more  than  three 
feet  in   length ;  the  male  is  the  largest  of  European  birds ;  the 
female  is  about  one  third  smaller.     It  is  a  timid  bird,  and  keeps 

18.  Flow  is  the  Cassowary  of  New  Holland  characterised? 

19.  How  are  the  Pressirostres  characterised? 

20.  What  genera  compose  this  family  ? 

21.  What  are  the  characters  of  Bustards  ?     Upon  what  do  they  feed  ? 

22.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Great  Bustard  ?     What  are  its  habits  T 


90  PLOVERS.— LAPWINGS. 

on  naked  and  extended  planes  ;  it  flies  little,  but  runs  with  great 
rapidity.  It  nests  in  fields  of  grain,  and  often  unites  in  bands 
of  from  fifty  to  sixty  individuals. 

23.  The  Little  Bustard,— Otis  tctrax,—}s  more  than  one   half 
smaller  than  the  preceding ;  it  is  brown,  dotted  with  black  above, 
and  whitish    beneath.     It  is  less  frequently  met  with  than  the 
Great  Bustard. 

24.  The  PLOVERS,— Charadrius, — (Plate  5,  fig.  6.)  like   the 
preceding,  have  no  thumb ;  but  their  moderate    beak  is  com- 
pressed and  swelled  at  the  end  ;  their  wings  are  moderate,  and 
they  fly  well.     They  habitually  frequent  sea-coasts,  the  mouths 
of  rivers,  maritime  marshes,  and  feed  chiefly  on   worms,  which 
they  induce  to  crawl  out  of  the  ground  by  striking  their  feet  upon 
it.     Some  species  live  solitary,  and  others  in  small  troops.    They 
emigrate  every  year,  in  more  or  less  numerous  troops,  and  it  is 
chiefly  in  the  autumn  during  the  rains,  that  they  are  seen  in 
greatest  numbers ;  from  this   circumstance  they  have  obtained 
their  name.     When  on  land,  they  are  in  constant  motion,    and 
they  fly  in  a  long  file.     Their  flesh  is  delicate  and  esteemed :  in 
those  provinces  where  -they  are  common,  many  are  taken  by 
means  of  nets.     The  species  of  France  are  seen  only  in  autumn 
and  spring  ;  they  are  the  Dotterel,  the  Golden  Plover,  and  the  Ring 
Plover;  they  are  all   found  in  the  United  States.     There   are 
several  species  which  have  a  horny  spur  on  the  carpal  end  of  the 
forearm. 

25..  The  LAPWINGS, —  Vanellus, — differ  from  Plovers  in  having 
a  thumb,  but  it  is  so  small  that  it  does  not  touch  the  ground. 
Their  habits  are  the  same,  and  they  often  go  in  company  with 
them. 

26.  The   CRESTED   LAPWING,  —  Vanellus   cristatvs,  —  inhabits 
Europe;  it  is  a  pretty  bird  of  the   size  of  a  Pigeon,    bronze 
black  with  a  long  and  slender  crest,  (Plate  5,  fig,  7.)     It  arrives 
in  France  in  the  spring,  builds  its  nest  in  the  fields,  and  remains 
through  the  summer ;  but  most  of  the  species  very  soon   after 
their  arrival,  continue  their  course  to  the  north,  and   return   in 
the  autumn. 

27.  [The  OYSTER-CATCHERS, — Hcemafopus, — have  a  somewhat 
longer  beak  than  the  Plovers  or  Lapwings.     They  dwell  exclu- 
sively along  the   borders   of  the  sea,  frequenting  beaches   and 

23.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Little  Bustard  ? 

24.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Plovers7     From    what  circumstance 
do  they  derive  their  name?     What  are  their  habits? 

25.  How  do  Lapwings  differ  from  Plovers  ? 

26.  What  is  the  Crested  Lapwing  ? 

27.  How  are  the  Oyster-catchers  characterised  ?     What  are  their  habits  ? 


CRANES.  91 


sandy  shores,  where  they  are  seen  to  follow  the  waves  in  search 
of  marine  insects.  The  Oyster- Catcher, — Hoe  mat  opus  ostralegus, 
— is  common  to  the  north  of  both  continents,  and  is  frequent  on 
the  sea  shore  of  New  Jersey  and  the  Southern  States. 

FAMILY  OF  CULTRIROSTRES. 

28.  All  the  Grallatoriae  of  this  family  have  a  long,  thick,  strong 
beak,  which  is  frequently  trenchant  and  pointed  ;  in  general,  they 
have  a  well  marked  thumb. 

29.  It  may  be  divided  into  three  tribes,  namely: 

1st.  The  CRANES,  which  have  a  straight  beak,  slightly  cleft, 
and  nearly  one  half  of  it  is  occupied  by  the  membranous  fossae  of 
the  nostrils. 

2nd  The  HERONS,  whose  beak  is  strong,  cleft  to  beneath  the 
eyes,  and  grooved. 

3d.  The  STORKS,  whose  beak  is  very  long,  and  very  strong. 

30.  The  CRANES, — Grvs, — have  a  straight  beak  which  is  but 
slightly  cleft ;  the  toes  are  moderate,  the  external  ones  being  a 
little   palmate,   and    the  thumb   scarcely   touches  the    ground. 
Almost  all  of  them  have  the  head  and  neck,  to  a  greater  or  less 
extent,  destitute  of  feathers  ;  their  habits  are  more  terrestrial 
than  those  of  the  other  Cultrirostres,  and   their  food  is    more 
vegetable. 

31.  The    Trumpeters,  —  Psophia,  —  and  Cranes  properly  so 
called,  are  ranged  under  this  division.     Among  the  former  are 
the   Crowned    Crane,    which  comes  from  the  western  coast  of 
Africa,  and  the  Numidian  Crane;  and  amongst  the  latter   is  the 
Common  Crane,  which  is  more  than  four  feet  high ;  and  which 
is   celebrated  for  the  migrations  it  makes  every  autumn  from 
north  to  south,  and  every   spring   in   a  contrary  direction,  in 
numerous  and  well  conducted  troops/ 

32.  [The   Whooping    Crane,  —  Grus   americana,  —  is    white; 
primaries  black,   and  with   black  shafts ;  the  whole  crown  and 
cheeks  bald.     This  stately  Crane,  the  largest  of  all  the  feathered 
tribes  in  the  United  States,  is  met  with  in  almost  every  part  of 
North    America,   dwelling  amidst  marshes,  and  dark  and  deso- 
late swamps ;  it  retires  to  the    West  Indies  to  pass  the  winter, 
though  some  have  been  known  to  linger,  through  the  whole  of 
the  inclement  season,  in  the  swamps  of  New  Jersey,  near  Cape 
May.] 

28.  How  are  the  Cultrirostres  characterised  ? 

29.  Into  what  tribes  is  the  family  of  Cultrirostres  divided  ? 

30.  How  are  Cranes  characterised  ? 

31.  For  what  is  the  common  Crane  celebrated? 

32.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Whooping  Crane? 


92  HERONS.— STORKS. 


33.  The  HERONS, — <ftrdea, — are  more  carnivorous,    and   are 
recognised  by  their  larger  toes,  and  by  their  strong  beak  which 
is  cleft  to  beneath  the  eyes,  and  acuminated.     They  are  gloomy 
birds,  and  build  their  nests  in  swamps,  along  the  banks  of  rivers. 
They  feed  on  fish,  frogs,  moles,  insects,  &c. 

34.  The  tribe  is  divided  into  Herons  properly  so  called,  Boat- 
t bills  (Caucroma)  &c.     The  beak  in  the  first  is  higher  than  it  is 

wide,  and  in  the  second  flattened  and  very  broad. 

35.  HERONS  PROPERLY  so  CALLED, — Jlrdea, — have  the  eyes  sur- 
rounded by  a  naked  membrane,  which  'extends  to  the  beak  ;  the 
tarsi  are  scutellated,  &c. 

36.  The  Common  Heron,  — Jlrdea  cinerea, — is  a  large  bird,  the 
plumage  of  which  is  bluish  ash-colour,  with  the  front  of  the  neck 
white,  sprinkled  with  black  tears,  and  a  black  tuft  on  the  occiput ; 
it  is  almost  always  solitary,  and  is  often  seen  for  hours  together, 
on   the  same  spot,  standing  motionless  on  one  foot,  the  body 
almost  straight,  the  neck  bent,   and  the  beak  resting  on  one 
shoulder ;  it  is  gloomy  and  timid,  and,  in  general,  flies   during 
the  night,   when  it  utters  a  harsh,  sharp  cry ;  its  flight  is  not 
rapid,   but  very  powerful,  and  it  can  soar  to  an  immense  height. 
Its   depredations   on  the  fishes   of  European  rivers,  render   it 
highly  prejudicial ;  it  is  celebrated  on  account  of  the  sport  which 
the   wealthy   in  former  times,  derived    from    hunting    it    with 
falcons. 

37.  The  Crab-eater,  is  a  species  of  Heron  of  small  size  which 
is  found  in  the  mountainous  districts  of  France  ;  it  frequents  the 
vicinity  of  ponds. 

38.  The   name   of  Egrets  is  given   to  certain   Herons,    the 
feathers   of  which,  on  the  lower  part  of  the  back,  at  a  certain 
period,    are   long  and  fringed ;  the   most  beautiful  species,  the 
feathers   of  which   are  used  for  ornamental    purposes,  are  the 
Great  and  the  Little  Egret ;  their  plumage  is  entirely  white,  and 
they  are  met  with  in  Europe. 

39.  The  Bitterns,  and  Night-Herons,  also  belong  to  this  tribe. 

40.  The   tribe    of  STORKS  is   characterised   by  a  larger  and 
smoother  beak  than  the  preceding,  and  by  strong,  almost  equal 
palmate  membranes  betwixt  the  bases  of  the  toes. 

33.  What  are  the  characters  of  Herons  ? 

34.  How  is  the  tribe  of  Herons  divided  ? 

35.  How  are  Herons  properly  so  called,  characterised  ? 

36.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Common  Heron  ?  What  are  its  habits? 

37.  What  is  the  Crab-eater  ? 

38.  What  are  Egrets? 

39.  What  are  Bitterns' 

40.  How  is  the  tribe  of  Storks  characterised? 


^ STORKS.— SPOONBILLS. 93 

41.  The  Storks  properly  so  called, —  Ciconia, — have  a  large 
beak  which  is  moderately  cleft ;  their  light  and  broad  mandibles, 
by  striking  against  each  other,  produce  a  peculiar  clash.     Their 
legs  are  reticulated  and  not  very  muscular.  Their  movements  are 
slow,  and  their  steps  long  and  measured ;  in  their  powerful  and 
sustained  flight,  they  carry  their  head  stiffly   in   advance,  and 
their  legs,  extended  behind,  serve  them  for  a  rudder. 

42.  The  White  Stork,— JJrdea   ciconia,— (Plate   5,  fg.    8.) 
appears  in  France  and  Germany  in  the  spring,  and   passes  the 
winter  in  Africa.     It  is  a  large,  white  bird,  with  the  primaries  of 
the  wings  black,  and  the  beak  and  feet  red.     They  live  in  pairs, 
and  return  every  year  to  lay  in  the  same  nest.     There  is  no  bird 
which  has  received,  from  different  nations,  more  universal   pro- 
tection than  this,  which  is,  in  fact,  every  where  useful  in  ridding 
the  soil  of  prejudicial  animals,  without,  at  the  same  time,   doing 
the  smallest  injury.     Among  the  ancients,  this   veneration  was 
carried  to  such  an  extent,  that  it  was  made  a  crime  to  kill  one  of 
these  birds ;  in  Thessaly  it  was  even  punishable  by  death.    Like 
the  Ibis,   the  Stork  was  an  object  of   worship   amongst    the 
Egyptians ;   and  its  instinctive   qualities   have   no  doubt    con- 
tributed to  increase  this  respect  which  is  perpetuated  among  the 
orientals,  and  still  observed  in  Switzerland  and  Holland.     It  has 
so  much  affection  for  its  young  that  it  does  not  quit  them  in  the 
greatest  danger ;  it  is  recorded  in  history,  that  the  Stork  of  Delft, 
which  was  uselessly  urged  to  carry  away  her  young,  remained 
and  perished  with  them  in  the  conflagration  of  that    city.     The 
tender  attentions  which  these  birds  pay  to  their  parents  in  old 
age,   are  not  less  remarkable,  and  it  is  for  this  reason  that  the 
Greeks  gave  their  name  to  the  law  which  obliges  children  to 
furnish  aliment  to  their  parents  when  they  are  in  want. 

43.  Some  species  of  Storks  have  on  the  middle  of  the  neck  an 
appendage  which  resembles  a  large  sausage,  on  account  of  which 
they  are  called,  Povched  Storks;  the  feathers  from  beneath  their 
wings  form  those  light  plumes  which  are  called,  by  the  French, 
Marabous  ;  one  species  is  found  in  Senegal,  and  another  in  India. 

44.  The  Spoonbills, — Platalea, — resemble  the  Storks  in  their 
whole  structure ;  but  their  beak,  from  which  they   derive  their 
name,  is  flat,  and  widened  at  the  end  into  a  round  disk  like  a 
spatula,  (Plate  5,Jig.  9.)     This  conformation  permits   them  to 

41.  WJiat  are  the  characters  of  Storks  properly  so  called? 

42.  What  is  the  White  Stork  ?     What  are  its  habits?     For   what   is   rf 
remarkable? 

43.  What  are  Pouched  Storks? 

44.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Spoonbill*? 


94  IBISES. 


feed  only  on  little  animals  which  they  obtain,  either  by  rooting 
in  the  mud,  or  fishing  in  the  water.  One  species  is  spread 
throughout  the  eastern  continent,  and  another  is  proper  to 
South  America. 

FAMILY  OF  LONGIROSTRES. 

45.  The  Longirostres  have  a  long,  slender  and  feeble  beak, 
which  is  only  suitable  for  rooting  in  the  mud,  in  search  of  worms 
and  small  insects,  (Plate  5,Jiy.  10.)  These  Grallatoriae  form  two 
tribes,  SNIPES  in  which  the  beak  is  straight,  or  curved  downwards ; 
and  the  AVOSETS  in  which  the  beak  is  curved  upwards. 

46  The  first  of  these  groups  is  composed  of  the  Ibis  and 
Curlews,  in  which  the  beak  is  arcuate,  and  Snipes  properly  so 
called,  Sandpipers,  the  Ruffs,  and  a  great  number  of  other 
birds  in  which  the  beak  is  straight. 

47.  The  IBISES,  (Plate  5,  fig.   10.)  have  the  beak   arcuate,  a 
part  of  the  head,  and  even  a  part  of  the  neck,  destitute  of  feathers, 
the  external  toes  perceptibly  palmate,  and  the  thumb   sufficiently 
long  to  rest  on  the  ground. 

48.  ["Species  of  the  Ibis  inhabit  all  quarters   of  the    world. 
Thoy  frequent  the  borders  of  rivers  and  lakes,   where  they  are 
accustomed  to  feed  on  insects,  Crustacea,  worms   and  shell  fish, 
to  which  they  also,  at  times,  add  vegetables.     But  we  may  place 
among  popular  fables,  the  reputation  they  have  long  enjoyed,  of 
being  the  great  destroyers  of  serpents  and  venomous  reptiles, 
which  in  fact,  they  never  touch.     They  migrate    periodically  to 
such  distances,  that  the  boundaries  of  the  earth  alone  seem   to 
set  limits  to  their  wanderings."] — Nuttall. 

49.  A  species  of  this  genus,  the  Sacred  Ibis, — Ibis  religiosa, — 
is   celebrated  on   account   of  the  religious  worship  it  received 
among  the  Ancient  Egygtians  ;  it  was  reared  in  the    temples  of 
that  country,  and  embalmed  after  its  death,     According  to  some, 
these  honours  were  rendered  to  the  Ibis  because  it   devoured 
serpents    which    might  have  become  dangerous  to  the  country, 
and  according  to  others,  because  its  appearance  announced  the 
rise  of  the  Nile.     It  is  often  seen  sculptured  on  the  monuments  of 
that  remarkable  people.     It  is  a  bird  of  about  the  size  of  a  hen  ; 
the  plumage  is   v&hite,  except  the  ends  of  the  primaries  of  the 

45.  How  are  the  Longirostres  characterised  ?  How  is  this  family  divided  ? 

46.  What  birds  compose  the  tribe  of  Snipes? 

47.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Ibises  ? 

48.  WThere  are  Ibises  found?     Upon  what  do  they  feed  ? 

49.  What  is  the  Sacred  Ibis  ?     Why  is  it  called  sacred  ?     What   are  its 
characters  ? 


CURLEWS.— SNIPES.— AVOSETS.  95 

wings,  which  are  black,  and  the  beak,  and  the  feet,  as  well  as 
the  naked  portion  of  the  head  and  neck,  which  are  also  black. 
This  species  is  found  throughout  Africa. 

50.  The  Curlews,  —  Numenius, — have  the  beak  arcuated    like 
that  of  the  Ibis,  but  it  is  more  slender  and  round  throughout ;  the 
tip  of  the  upper  mandible  extends  beyond  the  end  of  the  lower 
one,  and  projects  a  little  downwards  in  front  of  it.     The  toes  are 
palmated  at  bise.     They  are  met  with  on  our  own  coasts. 

51.  The  SNIPES  PROPERLY   so    CALLED, —  Scolopax, —  have   a 
straight  beak,  a  compressed  head,  with  large  eyes,  placed  far 
back,  and  the  feet  are  not  palmated ;  they  are  singularly  stupid 
in  appearance,  which  is  not  contradicted  by  their  habits, 

52.  The  Common  Woodcock  of  Europe,  —  Scohpax  rusticola, — 
inhabits  lofty  mountains  during  the  summer,  and  descends  into 
the  woods  about  the  middle  of  October ;  it  goes  alone  or  in  pairs, 
particularly  in  bad  weather,  and  seeks  worms  and  insects  in  the 
soil. 

53.  [The  American  Woodcock, — Scolopax  minor, — differs  from 
the  European  species,  in  the  temperature  of  the  climates  selected 
for  its  residence.     It  is  met  with,  in  summer,  between  the   river 
St.   Lawrence  and  the  limits  of  the  Middle  States,  and  in  the 
winter  retires  to,  or  beyond  the  boundary   of  the  Union.     It 
revisits   Pennsylvania  early   in  March.     The  sensibility  of  the 
end  of  the  beak,  as  in  the  Snipe,  is  sufficiently  acute  to  enable  it 
to  collect  its  food  by  the  sense  of  touch  without  using  the  eyes.] 

54.  The  Snipe, — Scolopax  gallinago, — is  smaller  than  the  pre- 
ceding ;  it  inhabits  marshes,  the  banks  of  rivulets,  &c.     Two 
other  species  are  found  in  France,  the  Great  Snipe,  and  Jack 
Snipe.     All   these  birds  are  excellent  to  eat.     The   American 
species  closely  resemble  those  of  Europe. 

55.  The  AVOSETS, — Recurvirostra, — are  distinguished  by  their 
long  beak  whicfi  is  slender,  elastic,  and  curved  upwards,  and  by 
their  feet  being  palmate  almost  to  the  ends  of  their  toes.     There 
is  one  species  in  Europe     [The  American  Jluoset, — Recurvirostra 
americana, — arrives  on  the  coast  of  Cape  May,  in  New  Jersey, 
late   in   April,  and  early  in  October  retires  with  its  young  to 
winter  in  the  South.] 

50.  How  are  the  Curlews  characterised  ? 

51.  Wh  it  are  the  characters  of  Snipe  properly  so  called  ? 

52.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  European  Woodcock? 

53.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  American  Woodcock? 

54.  What  is  the  Snipe  ? 

55.  How  are  the  Avosets  distinguished? 


RAILS. 


FAMILY  OF  MACRODACTYLI. 

56.  The  Grallatoriae  composing  this  family  never   have  the 
beak  as  slender,  and  as  weak  as  it  is  in  the  Longirostres,  but, 
in  other  respects,  its  form  varies  very  much.     They  are  chiefly 
characterised  by  the  arrangement  of  their  toes,  which    are  very 
long,  fitted  for  walking  on  the  grasps   of  marshes ;  or  even  for 
swimming,  in  which  case  they  are  widened  by  a  species  of  lateral 
border,  (Plate  7,  fiy.  9.)  but   they   never  possess  the  smallest 
trace  of  a  palmate  membrane  ;  the  thumb  is  always  quite  long  ; 
the  body  is  singularly  compressed  ;  and  their  wings  are  moderate 
or  short,  and  their  flight  is  feeble. 

57.  Some  of  them,  (the  Jacanas,  for  example,)  have  the  wings 
armed  with  a  spur ;  others  are  destitute  of  this   kind    of  spur ; 
they   are  distinguished  into  Rails  and  Coots,  according  as  the 
front  is  feathered,  or  furnished  with  a  horny  shield. 

58.  The  RAILS, — Rallus, — have  the  front  feathered,  the   beak 
compressed  and  nearly  straight,  the  head  small,  the  toes  destitute 
of  lateral    festoons,  and  the    wings  concave.     They  ordinarily 
keep  concealed  beneath  the  grass  during  the  day,  and  seek  their 
food,  in  the  morning  and  evening,  amidst  the  rushes  and  herbs  of 
marshes  and  prairies. 

59.  The  Water  Kail  of  Europe,—  Rallus  aqvaticus, — is  fawn 
coloured  brown,  spotted  with  blackish  above,   bluu'sh    ash-colour 
beneath,  and  striped  black  and  white  on  the  flanks.     Its  flesh  has 
a  marshy  odour.     It  is  common   along  rivulets,  and   ponds ;  it 
swims  well  and  runs  lightly  over  the  leaves  of  aquatic  plants. 

60.  [The    Clapper  Rail,  or  Mvd-Hen, —  Rallus  crepitans, — 
abounds  in  the  Middle  and  Southern  States.     It  is  very  numerous 
oh"    the  extensive  salt  marshes  of  New  Jersey,  where  they  are 
intersected  by  numerous  tide  water  ditches.     It  .winters  near  to, 
or  within  the  southern  boundaries  of  the  Union.] 

61.  The  Crex,  or  Laud  Rail, — Rallus  cmr,  —  is  vulgarly  called 
the  King  of  the  Quails,  because,  from  the  circumstance  of  arriving 
and  departing  with  them,  and  keeping  on  the  same   grounds,  it 
was  believed  that  he  led  them.     It  lives  and  nests  in   the  fields, 
and  runs  through  the  grass  with  great  rapidity. 

56.  How  are  the  Macrodactyli  characterised  ? 

57.  How  is  the  family  of  Macrodactyli  distinguished  ? 

58.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Rails? 

59.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Euiopean  Water  Rail? 

60.  What  is  the  Mud-Hen? 

61.  What  is  the  King  of  Quails  ? 


COOTS.— FL  AM  I NGOS. 97 

62.  The  COOTS, — Fulica, — are  readily  distinguished  from  the 
Rails  by  a  sort  of  horny  plate,  which  extends  from  the  base  of  the 
beak,  and  covers  the  forehead.     This  genus  comprises  the  Water' 
Hens, —  Galtinula, —  which  are  characterised  by  their  very  long 
toes,   furnished    with   a  narrow  border.     In  general,  they  live 
singly  or  in  couples,  sometimes  in  small  troops  of  three  or  four, 
on  stagnant  waters  ;  they  swim  and  dive  readily  ;  during  a  great 
part  of  the  day  they  keep  concealed  amongst  reeds  and  rushes, 
and  venture  only  upon  the  surface  of  the  waters  at  night.     Their 
flight,  during  which  their  legs  are  pendent,  is  neither  lofty,  sus- 
tained, nor  rapid.    There  is  one  species  widely  spread  in  Europe. 

The  American  Coots  resemble  those  of  Europe. 

FAMILY  OF  FLAMINGOS. 

63.  This  division  of  the  Order  of  Grallatoria3  is  composed  of 
a  single  genus,  which  is  very  remarkable  for  the  singular  struc- 
ture of  its  beak,  and  the  disproportionate  length  of  the  legs  and 
neck.     (Plate  5.  fig.  11.) 

64.  Flamingos, — PhcRuicopterus, — are  large  birds  that  stand 
high  on  their  legs ;  they  have  palmate  feet,  an   extremely   long, 
slender  neck,  a  small  head,  the  upper  mandible  flat,  and  suddenly 
bent  down  at  its  middle  to  be  applied  over  the  lower  mandible 
which  is  oval,  and  longitudinally  hollowed  into  a  semi-cylindrical 
canal ;  the  edges   of  both  mandibles  are   furnished  with    very 
delicate  little  transverse  plates  like  those  of  ducks,  and  their  tongue 
is  thick  and  fleshy.     They  live  on  shell  fish,  insects,  and  the  eggs 
of  fishes,  which  they  obtain  by  means  of  their  long  neck,  and  by 
bending  down  the  head,  to  use  the  hook  of  the  upper  mandible  to 
advantage. 

65.  The  most  common  species  is  spread  over  the  eastern  con- 
tinent, as  far  as  the  fortieth  degree  of  north  latitude.    Numerous 
troops  are  seen  every  year  on  the  southern  shores  of  France,  and 
sometimes   they  ascend  as  far  as   the  river  Rhine      The  Red 
Flamingo, — Pkoeuicopterus   ruber, — is  from  three   to   four   feet 
high,  of  a  purple  red  on  the  back,  and  rose  coloured  wings.     Its 
habits  are  very  remarkable.     These  birds  are  always  in  troops, 
and  they  form  a  line  for  the  purpose  of  fishing,  and  this  disposi- 
tion to  be  in  file  remains,  even  when  they  repose  on  the  shore. 
They  appoint  a  sentinel  for  their  common    security;  whether 

62.  How  are  Coots  distinguished  from  Rails  ?     What  are  the  characters 
of  Water-Hens  ?     What  are  their  habits  ? 

63.  Is  there  more  than  one  genus  in  the  family  of  Flamingos? 

64.  How  are  Flamingos  characterised? 

65.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Red  Flamingo  ?     What  are  its  habits  ? 
Upon  what  do  Flamingos  feed  ? 


98  PALMIPEDES. 


fishing  or  at  rest,  one  of  them  is  always  on  the  lookout,  with 
head  erect,  and  if  any  thing  alarms  him,  he  utters  a  braying  cry, 
resembling  the  sound  of  a  trumpet,  which  is  the  signal  for  depar- 
ture ;  as  soon  as  the  troop  rises,  and  when  they  fly,  they  still 
preserve  the  line.  The  manner  in  which  they  construct  their 
nest,  is  also  worthy  of  attention ;  they  ordinarily  build  on  drowned 
or  wet  shores;  they  construct  it  on  the  water's  edge,  of  marsh 
mud,  in  the  form  of  a  sugar  loaf,  truncated  at  top,  about  twenty 
inches  high,  and  as  they  cannot,  on  account  of  the  extreme 
length  of  their  legs,  squat  in  their  nest,  they  straddle  over  it,  the 
legs  hanging  down  on  each  side,  and  resting  on  the  ground. 

66.  The  ancients   esteemed  the  flesh  of  the  FJamingos  very 
highly,   and  its  fleshy   tongue  was  particularly  prized  by   the 
Romans ;  but  the  moderns,  who  have  had  occasion  to  eat  these 
birds,  have  found  the  flesh  oily  and  disagreeable. 

67.  The  GLARIOLES  and  VAGINALS,  or  Sheath-bills,  offer  nothing 
very  interesting ;  the  first  are  found  in  all  the    northern  part  of 
the  eastern  continent,  and  the  second  in  New  Holland. 


LESSON    VIII. 

ORDER  OP  PALMIPEDES  —Zoological  Characters. — Habits. — Divi- 
sion into  four  families, 

FAMILY  OF  DIVERS. — Grebes. — *ftuks. — Penguins. 

FAMILY  OP  LONGIPENNES.  —  Petrels.  —  rflbatross.  —  Gulls.  — Sea- 
Swallows. 

FAMILY  OP  TOTIPALMAT^E. —  Genus  of  Pelicans,  (Pelican properly 
so  called,) — Organization. — Habits. — Frigate  Bird. — Boobies. 

FAMILY  OF  LAMELLIROSTRES.  —  Genus  of  Ducks. — Swans. —  Geese. 
— Ducks. — Eiders — Genus  of  the  Mergansers. 


ORDER   OF   PALMIPEDES. 


1.  This  name  is  given  to  birds  in  which  the  toes  are  united  by 
a  palmate  membrane,  but  in  other  respects  without  the  conforma- 
tion that  belongs  to  the  Grallatoriae ;  every  Palmipede  has,  in 
fact,  the  interval  which  separates  the  toes,  filled  up  by  a  broad 
membrane,  which  envelopes  them  to  neai  the  nail,  or  in  other 

66.  Is  the  flesh  of  Flamingos  considered  good  feod  ? 

67.  What  are  Glarioles  and  Vaginals  ? 

I.  What  are  Palmipedes?  What  are  the  most  remarkable  parts  of  their 
organization  ?  How  is  this  order  divided  ? 


DIVERS. 


90 


words,  they  are  web-footed.  Their  feet  are  made  for  natation, 
that  is,  they  are  placed  far  back  on  the  body,  an  1  sustained 
by  strong,  compressed  tarsi.  A  close,  lustrous  plumage  imbued 
with  an  oily  fluid,  and  a  thick  down  next  to  the  skin,  protect 
them  against  the  water  upon  which  they  dwell.  They  are  the 
only  animals  of  this  class,  in  which  the  neck  exceeds — and  some- 
times very  much  the  length  of  tie  feet,  f  >r  the  reason  that  when 
swimming  on  the  surface  of  the  water,  they  often  have  to  seek 
animals  upon  which  they  feed  in  its  depths.  The  localities  which 
they  inhabit,  removes  most  of  them  from  the  empire  of  man,  and 
in  many  respects  even  from  the  investigation  of  naturalists  Birds 
of  this  order  generally  possess  a  system  of  organization  which  is 
strong  and  appropriate  for  extensive  flight ;  their  sternum  is  very 
long,  affording  ample  protection  to  most  of  their  viscera,  and  has 
but  one  notch  or  oval  hole  on  each  side,  which  is  tilled  by  mem- 
brane, so  that  this  bone  affords  a  wide  surface  for  the  attachment 
of  the  depressor  muscles  of  the  wings.  This  order  is  divided  into 
four  families  according  to  the  fallowing  characters  : 

(Families.) 


Having  excessively  sh^rt  wings,  and  the  legs 
placed  so  for  ba  k,  that  thny  are  oh  iged,  when  on 
land,  to  pres  rve  an  almost  vertical  position.  They 
fly  little,  or  not  at  all. 


Having  the 
wings  of  ordi- 
nary  length,  or 
even  very  long, 
and  the  feet  so 
pi  iced  as  to  ena- 
ble the  animal  to 
walk  when  in  a 
horizontal  posi- 
tion. 


C     The  thumb  free, 
The  beak  <  orwnnUng.  Wings 
horny.      ^ excessively  long. 

f  The  thumb  united 
j  to  the  other  toes  by 
|  a  common  mem- 
j^brune.  Wings  long. 


BRACHYPTKR.E. 
or 

DIVERS. 


LONGTPENNES. 


TOTIPALMATA 


The  beak   covered  by  a  soft  ~i 
skin    and  the    ed.es    furnished   I LAMELLIROSTRE8. 
with  transverse  lamellae,  or  very   j 
fine  teeth. 


FAMILY  OF  BRACHYPTF.RJE,  OR  DIVERS 
2.  They  have  the  legs  placed  farther  back  than  all  other  birds, 
which  renders  it  laborious  for  them  to  walk,  and  generally  obliges 
them  to  keep  in  an  erect  position  when  on  land,  (Plate  6,  fig. 
I,arad2.)  As  most  of  them  fly  badly,  and  as  many  of  them 
cannot  even  fly  at  all,  in  consequence  of  the  extreme  shortness 
of  their  wings,  they  maybe  regarded  as  belonging,  almost  exclu- 

2.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Bracbypterse  ?  What  are  their  habits  ? 
How  is  this  family  divided  ? 


100  DIVERS.— GREBES. 


sively,  to  the  surface  of  the  water :  their  plumage  Is  very  close 
in  structure,  and  even  frequently  presents  a  smooth  surface  and 
a  silvery  brightness.  They  swim  perfectly,  with  the  body  entirely 
under  water,  and  use  their  wings  almost  as  if  they  were  fins. 
This  family  is  divided  into  three  tribes,  namely: 

1st  The  DIVERS,  in  which  the  beak  is  moderate,  strong, 
straight,  very  pointed,  and  compressed,  and  the  nostrils  are 
lateral,  linear,  and  half  closed  by  a  membrane. 

2nd.  The  AUKS,  in  which  the  beak  is  very  compressed, 
trenchant,  and  ordinarily  furrowed  transversely. 

3d.  The  PENGUINS,  in  which  the  beak  is  pointed  or  hooked, 
and  the  wings  are  furnished  only  with  feathers,  which  are  so 
short  that  they  resemble  scales. 

3.  The  DIVERS,  are  sub-divided  into  Divers  properly  so  called, 
Grebes,  Guillemots,  &c. 

4.  The  DIVERS  PROPERLY  so  CALLED, — Colymbus, — are  recog- 
nised by  their  long  toes,  which  are  entirely  palmate,  and  armed 
with  pointed  nails;  the  thumb  is  short  and  provided  with  a  small 
membrane.     Their  tail  is  very  short  and  round.     These  birds 
never  quit  the  water  except  during  the  season  of  laying,  and 
then  they  walk  by  the  assistance  of  their  wings ;  if  these  supports 
fail  them,  they   fall  upon  the  belly,  and  have  great  difficulty  in 
rising      They  keep  habitually  under  water,  and    scarcely  show 
any  thing  but  the  head  to  breathe  from  time  to  time.     They   fly 
well,  but  rarely,  and  dive  at  the  flash  of  a  gun,  without   attempt- 
ing to  fly.    They  feed  on  fishes,  spawn,  and  aquatic  insects.    The 
most  common  of  its  tribe,  in  the  United  States,  is  the  Loon,  or 
Great  Northern  Diver, —  Colymbus  glacialis. 

5.  The  GREBES, — Podiceps, — (P'ate  6,  fig.  2.)  in  place  of  true 
palmate  membranes,  have  the  toes  widened  like  the  Grallatoria3 
of  the  genus  Fulica,  and  the  anterior  ones  being  united  only   at 
the  base   by   membranes.     They  live  on  lakes  and  ponds,  and 
build  among  the  rushes.     They  swim  with  ease,  and   dive   fre- 
quently ;  the  semi-metallic  lustre   of  their  plumage  has  caused 
their  skins   to  be  applied  to   the  same  use  as  fur.     There  are 
several  species  in  Europe  which  are  not  well  distinguished  ;  the 
largest   is   of  the   size  of  a  duck,  and  the  smallest  is  not  larger 
than  a  quail. 

6.  The  name  of  GUILLEMOTS, —  Uria, — is  given  to  Divers  that 
want  the  thumb,  and  that  have  shorter  wings  than  the  preceding. 

3.  Hew  are  the  Divers  divided  ? 

4  How  are  Divers  properly  so  called,  characterised?     What   are  their 
habits?     What  is  the  Loon  ? 

5  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Grebes  ? 

6  What  are  Guillemots  ? 


AUKS.— PENGUINS.  101 


7.  Birds  of  the  tribe  of  AUKS, — Mca, — have  a  broad,  straight, 
compressed  beak,  which  is  very  much  curved  at  the  point.     The 
nostrils,    which    are  about  the   middle   of  the  beak,  are  almost 
closed  by  a  membrane  covered  with  feathers  ;  the  feet  are  short, 
have  only  three  toes,  and  are  completely  palmate;  the  nails  are 
slightly  curved.     They  have  the  same  habits  as  the  birds   of  the 
preceding  genera,  and,  like  them,  inhabit  the   north.     With    the 
exception  of  a  single  species,  they  all  fly  but  little,   and   always 
grazing,   or   lightly  touching  the   surface   of  the  waler.     [The 
Razor-hill  ./9«A, — Jttca  torda, — inhabits  the   coldest   regions   of 
the  northern  hemisphere.     It  is  gregarious  in  its  habits,  and  flies 
rapidly,  but  near  the  surface  of  the  water.     The  Great  Jink*  or 
Northern    Penguin* — rflca  impennis, — inhabits  the  highest  lati- 
tudes of  the  globe,  dwelling  by  choice  and  instinct,  amidst  regions 
covered  with  eternal  ice      Its  wings  are  extremely  short  and  use- 
less for  flight] 

8.  The  tribe  of  PENGUINS,— Jlptenodytes,— (Plate   6,   fig.    1.) 
comprises  Palmipedes,  not  one  of  which  can  fly;  their  little  wings 
are  covered  with  mere  vestiges  of  feathers,  which  at  first   sight 
resemble  scales ;  their  feet,  which  are  placed  farther  back  than  in 
any  other  bird,  only  support  them  when  they  rest  upon  the  tarsus, 
which  is  widened  like  the  sole  of  the  foot  of  a  quadruped  ;  they 
have  a  small  thumb  directed  inwards,  and  the  three  anterior  toes 
are  united  by  a  membrane.     These  birds  never  quit   the    water, 
except  to  lay,  and  then  they  are  obliged  to  drag  themselves  along 
on  the  belly.     They  are  only  found  in  the  antarctic  seas.     The 
Great    Penguin, — t&ptenodyte*    patagnuica, — is   the   size   of   a 
goose,   slate  colour   above,   with   a   black  mask,  and  a  lemon 
coloured  tail. 

FAMILY  OF  LONGIPENNES. 

9.  This  family  contains  birds  of  the  high  seas  which  from  their 
power  of  extensive  flight,   are  every  where  found,  and  which 
navigators  meet  with  in  every  latitude.    They  have  sharp,  slender 
wings,  (Plata  Q^fig.  4.);  their  pectoral  muscles  are  very  power- 
ful, their  feet  are  widely  palmate,  which  better  enables  them   to 
repose  upon  the  waves ;  and  their  piercing  sight,  inevitably  pre- 
vents the  escape  of  fishes,  of  which  they  are  very  fond,  and  which 
they  seize,  not  by  diving,  but  skimming  the  surface.    These  birds 
are  frequently  met  at  incredible  distances  from  land,  and  they  are 
seldom  seen  beyond  the  limits  of  the  zones,  which  they   inhabit 

7.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Auks  ?     What  is  the  Razor-biil  Auk  ? 
What  is  the  Great  Auk  ? 

8.  What  are  the  characters  of  Penguins?  What  regions  do  they  inhabit? 

9.  What  are  the  habits  of  the  Longipennes  ? 


102  PETRELS. 


through  preference.  They  are  recognised  by  the  freedom  of  the 
thumb,  or  its  entire  absence,  by  their  very  long  wings,  and  by 
their  beak,  which  is  without  teeth,  hooked,  or  simply  pointed. 

10,  The  following  table  exhibits  the  characters  of  the  principal 
genera  composing  this  family. 

(Genera.) 
nail  planted  in  the  heel, 


of  a  tube.      j^  Whhout  a  vestiffe  of  a  thumb,        }•      ALBATROSS. 

- 
g  J  f  Legs  pretty  long  ;  tail  not  forked      }•         GULLS. 

5  1    The  nostrils 

oblong,  and  f     Beak  compressed, 

pierced  in     \        Legg        |   of  the  ordinary  form. 
different       j   very  short  ;J 
places.         f   tail    gener-  }          Beak  like  the        > 

t  ally  forked.  |   blades  af  a  pair   of  >       SKIMMERS. 
(.  scissors.  \ 

It.  The  PETRELS,  —  Proceflaria,  —  have  a  beak,  hooked  at  the 
end,  the  extremity  of  which  seems  to  consist  of  a  distinct  piece, 
articulated  with  the  remainder  ;  their  nostrils  are  united  in  a  tube 
laid  on  the  back  of  the  upper  mandible  ;  in  place  of  a  thumb, 
there  is  a  nail  planted  in  the  heel.  Of  all  the  palmipedes  these 
remain  most  constantly  at  a  distance  from  land  ;  and  when  a  tem- 
pest supervenes,  they  are  often  forced  to  seek  shelter  on  reefs  and 
ships,  which  circumstance  has  obtained  for  them  the  name  of 
Sturm  Birds.  That  of  Petrel,  (little  Peter)  is  given  to  them,  it  is 
said,  from  their  habit  of  walking  on  the  water,  by  the  assistance 
of  their  wings,  which  reminds  us  of  the  miracle  of  Saint  Peter 
walking  on  the  Lake  of  Gennesaret.  They  build  their  nest  in 
holes,  in  rocks,  and  they  eject  upon  those  that  attack  them  an 
oily  fluid  with  which  their  stomacb  appears  to  be  always  filled. 
The  greatest  number  of  species  inhabit  the  seas  of  the  Antarctic 
pole. 

12.  These  birds  are  nocturnal  ;  they  seek  their  food  only  in  the 
morning,  or  evening  twilight.  During  the  day  they  lie  concealed 
in  caverns  and  clefts  of  rocks.  They  feed  on  the  bodies.  of  dead 
cetacea,  mollusca,  and  worms  that  float  on  the  surface  of  the 
water. 

To  this  genus  belong  the  Stormy  Petrels,  or  Mother  Carey's 
chickens,  —  I'rocellaria  pelayica,  —  Cape  Pigeons,  &c. 

1C    What  are  tiie  principal  genera  of  the  family  of  Longipennes  ? 

11.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Petrels? 

12.  What  are  the  habits  of  Petrels1/ 


ALRATROSS.— GULLS.— SEA-SWALLOWS. 103 

13.  The  ALBATROSSES, — Diomcdea, — have  a    very  long,  very 
strong,  hard,  trenchant  and  compressed  beak,  which  is   straight 
at  the  base,  and  suddenly  curved  towards  the  end ;  the  nostrils 
are  tubular,  and  placed  in  a  furrow;  the  feet  are  short  and   pal- 
mate, and  have  but  three'toes;  the  nails  are  short  and  dull. 

14.  The  Albatrosses  are  the  largest  of  all  oceanic  birds;  their 
heavy,  massive  form  seerns  to  bear  very  little  relation  to   their 
rapid   and  long  continued  flight,  which  has  caused  them  to  be 
called   by   mariners    Cape  Sheep,   or    Man-of-war-birds.     The 
species  best  known,  is  white  with  black  wings.     Of  all  birds, 
this  one  is  seen  at  the  greatest  distance  from  land ;  it  generally 
inhabits   extra-tropical  latitudes,   and  it  is  chiefly  in  those  seas 
which  wash  the  three  great  southern  capes,  that  it  is  most  com- 
monly seen.     It  was  for  a  long  time  believed  that  it  belonged 
exclusively  to  the  southern  hemisphere,  and  was  never  seen  in 
the  north. 

15.  The  genus  of  GULLS, — Larus, — (Plate  6.  fig.  5.)  have  a 
moderate  entire  beak,   which  is  naked  at  the  base ;  the  upper 
mandible  is  curved   at  the  point,  and  the  inferior,  swelled  and 
angular  beneath  ;  the  nostrils  are  median  and  longitudinal ;  the 
tarsi  are  pretty  long,  and  naked  above  the  knee :  the  thumb 
which  is  articulated  high   up,  is  sometimes  without  a  nail ;  the 
tail  is  rectilinear,  and  the  wings  are  long.    The  name  of  Goelands, 
or  Gulls  properly  so  called,  is  given  to  large  species,  the   size  of 
which  exceeds  that  of  a  duck,  while  the  smaller  species  are  called 
Mouettes. 

16.  Mouettes  inhabit  the  sea  shore  of  all  parts   of  the  globe. 
They   are  clamorous  and  voracious ;  they  feed   on  fishes  and 
small   animals,  as   well  as  on  carrion  and  dead  bodies;  their 
gluttony  is  such  that  they  may  be  easily  taken  by  enveloping  a 
hook  with  feathers  which,  floating  on  the  surface,  in  their  eyes, 
resembles  a  little  fish. 

17.  The  SEA   SWALLOWS,  or   TERNS, — Sterna, — derive   their" 
name  from  their  excessively  long  wings  and  forked  tail  which 
give  them  the  appearance  of  common  Swallows.     Their  beak  is. 
as  long  or  longer  than   the  head,  almost   straight,  compressed, 
trenchant,   acute  at  the  point,  and  both  mandibles  are  of  equal 
length  ;  the  nostrils  are  about  the  middle  of  the  beak  ;  the    feet 
are  small,  naked  above  the  knee,  the  tarsi  are  very  short,  and  the 

13.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Albatross? 

14.  Where  are  Albatrosses  found? 

15.  How  are  Gulls  characterised  ?     What  are  Goelands? 

16.  What  are  Mouettes? 

17.  What  are  the  characters  of  Sea-Swallows  ? 

9* 


104 STaMMERS— PELIC4NS. 

anterior  toes  are  united  by  a  membrane.  Their  nails  are  small 
and  arcuate.  These  birds  fly  a  great  deal,  rarely  alight  upon 
the  water,  and  do  not  swim.  They  feed  on  little  fishes  or  insects 
which  they  seize  as  they  fly,  skimming  the  surface  of  the  water. 
All  birds  of  this  genus  are  clothed  in  white,  with  the  back,  wings, 
and  tail,  pearl  gray. 

18.  The  Shimmers,  (Cut- waters,  or  Shear-waters, — Rhynchops, 
—are  remarkable  for  the  singular  form  of  their  beak,  the  lower 
mandible  of  which  is  much  longer  than  the  upper,  both  being  flat- 
tened, so  as  to  form  simple  blades,  which  meet  without  clasping. 
They  inhabit  the  West  Indies.  [The  Cut-water,  or  Black  Skimmer, 
—  lUnjnckops  nigra, — is  a  bird  of  passage  in  the  United  States.  It 
arrives  from  its  winter  quarters  about  the  middle  of  May,  on  the 
sea  shores  of  New  Jersey,  where  it  breeds  :  its  favourite  haunts 
are  along  the  low  sand-bars  and  dry  flats  of  the  strand,  in  the 
immediate  vicinity  of  the  ocean.] 

FAMILY  OF  TOTIPALMAT^E. 

19  The  birds  of  this  family  are  remarkable  for  having  the 
thumb  united  to  the  other  toes  in  the  same  membrane,  and  not- 
withstanding this  organization,  which  converts  their  feet  into 
excellent  paddles,  they  are  the  only  birds  among  the  Palmipedes 
that  perch  on  trees.  They  all  fly  well,  and  have  short  feet. 

The  characters  of  the  most  important  genera  of  this  family  are 
contained  in  the  following  table: 

(Genera.) 

Having1  a  large  cutaneous  pouch  or  sac,  suspended  )         p 
between  the  branches  of  the  lower  mandible.       f 


Without  a 

sac  beneath 

the  lower 

jaw. 


The  beak      f          Tail  round,        )       ~ 
straight,  com.      (of  fourteen  quills.)  \      CORMORANTS. 
pressed,     and! 

hooked  at  the)   Tail  forked }-  FRIGATE  BIRDS. 


end. 


^  Tail  pointed  ....}•          BOOBIES. 


Beak  straight,  slender,  and  pointed,   }-     DARTERS,  &c. 

20.  The  PELICANS, — Pelicanm, — (Plate  6,  fig.  3)  have  a  long, 
straight,  broad  beak,  which  is  very  much  depressed  ;  the  upper 
mandible  is  flattened  and  hooked,  and  the  lower  one  is  formed 
of  two  bony  branches  between  which  hangs  a  large  pouch  of 
naked  skin.  The  face  and  throat  are  naked,  the  feet  are  strong 
and  short,  and  all  the  toes  are  united  by  a  single  membrane. 
These  singular  animals  are  expert  swimmers,  and  are  found  both 
on  salt  and  fresh  waters.  They  feed  on  fishes,  and  can  store  an 

18.  How  are  the  Skimmers  characterised  ?   What  is  the  Black  Skimmer  ? 

19.  For  what  are  birds  of  the  family  of  Totipalraatse  remarkable  ? 

20.  How  are  Pelicans  characterised?     Where  are  they  found  ? 


CORMORANTS.  ]Q5 


ample  supply  of  them  in  their  pouch,  which  is  prodigiously  dilata- 
ble. They  are  spread  overall  the  warm,  temperate,  and  even  the 
almost  frigid  climates  of  the  globe,  and  one  of  the  species,  the 
common  Pelican,  may  be  considered  a  cosmopolite. 

21.  The  Cinnmoti  Pelican, —  Pdicanus  onocrotalus, — (some- 
times called  onucrotnlus,  because  its  voice  has  been  compared  to 
the  braying  of  an  ass,)  the  largest  web-footed  water-fowl  known, 
is  five  or  six  feet  long  with  an  alar  spread  of  twelve  feet ;  the 
beak  alone  is  about  a  foot  and  a  half  in  length,  and  its  pouch 
will  contain  a  dozen  quarts  of  water ;  its  plumage  is  more  or 
less  purely  white,  according  to  its  age,  and  the  remiges  are 
black.  It  flies  well,  and  sometimes  rises  to  a  great  height ;  but 
in  general,  it  skims  the  surface  of  the  water,  or  balances  at  a 
moderate  elevation,  in  order  to  precipitate  itself  more  readily 
upon  its  prey;  sometimes  it  is  seen  to  beat  the  water  with  its 
wings  as  if  to  disturb  it,  and  alarm  the  fishes,  and  we  are  assured, 
when  Pelicans  are  assembled  in  troops,  they  fish  in  company,  by 
forming  a  large  circle  which  they  gradually  reduce  to  imprison 
the  fishes,  until,  at  a  given  signal,  they  all  strike  the  water  at  the 
same  time,  and,  under  favour  of  the  confusion,  dive  in  and 
seize  their  victims.  The  fishing  over,  they  retire  to  some  rocky 
point  or  shoal,  and  there  digest  their  gluttonous  meal  at  their  ease. 
They  can  perch  on  trees,  (which  is  very  rare  among  the  web- 
footed  birds,)  but  they  do  not  nest  in  them  ;  they  build  on  the 
ground,  in  an  excavation,  which  they  line  with  herbs.  The 
female  lays  from  four  to  six  eggs,  and  feeds  her  young  by  dis- 
gorging before  them  the  fishes,  which  she  brings  in  her  pouch  for 
their  use.  It  is  also  said  that  she  carries  them  water  in  the  same 
way,  and  it  is  probable  that  the  movement  which  she  makes  to 
empty  her  pouch,  by  pressing  it  against  her  breast,  has  given  rise 
to  the  fable,  referred  by  some  writers,  to  the  pretended  habit 
which  these  birds  had  of  opening  their  breast  to  feed  their  young 
family  on  their  own  blood. 

22.  The  CORMORANTS, —  Phalacrocorax, — have  an  elongated, 
compressed  beak,  the  upper  mandible  hooked  at  the  end,  the 
skin  of  the  throat  is  but  little  dilatable,  and  does  not  form  a  pouch 
as  in  the  Pelicans ;  the  nail  of  the  middle  toe  is  toothed  like  a 
saw,  and  the  tail,  which  consists  of  fourteen  feathers,  is  round. 
They  are  excellent  divers :  they  ordinarily  swim  with  only  the 
head  above  water,  and  they  pursue  fishes,  upon  which  they  feed, 
with  astonishing  rapidity,  entirely  under  water.  Their  flight  is 
rapid  and  sustained ;  but  on  land,  they  walk  badly,  and  sustain 

21.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  common  Pelican?  What  are  its  habits? 

22.  What  are  the  characters  of  Cormorants  ?    How  is  the  common  COT 
jiorant  characterised  ? 


106 FRIGATE   BIRDS.— BOOBIES.— DARTERS. 

themselves  almost  in  a  vertical  position  by  the  assistance  of  the  tail. 
The  Common  Cormorant,  is  of  the  size  of  a  goose,  and  its  plumage 
is  greenish  black  ;  it  inhabits  the  northern  countries  of  both  con- 
tinents ;  it  nests  sometimes  in  rocky  clefts,  and  sometimes  on  trees 
or  among  rushes,  and  feeds  chiefly  on  eels.  The  Shags  belong 
to  this  genus. 

23.  The  FRIGATE  BIRDS,  —  Tachypetes,— (Plate  6, /?#.  4.)  also 
differ  from  Pelicans  in  the  absence  of  the  sub-maxillary  pouch, 
in  their  forked  tail,  and  in  their  short  feet,    the  membranes   of 
which  are  deeply  notched  ;  they  have  long  wings  that  spread   to 
a  great  extent,  and  a  beak,  both  mandibles  of  which  are  curved 
at  the  end. 

24.  These  birds  only  inhabit  inter-tropical  regions,  and  their 
flight  is  so  powerful  and  rapid,  that  they  fly  to  great  distances  from 
land,  and  for  this  reason  they  have  obtained  the  name  of  Man-of- 
war  birds.     They  are  met  with  more  than  four  hundred  leagues 
at  sea,  and  they  wage  an  active  war  against  the  flying-fish, 
which,  in  order  to  escape  from  the  pursuit  of  other  fishes,  springs 
entirely  out  of  water.     Frigate  birds  also   pursue  Boobies,  and 
by  striking   them  with  their  wings  and  beak,  force  them  to  dis- 
gorge the  product  of  their  fishing,  which  they  dexterously  seize 
before  it  falls  into  the  water. 

25.  The  BOOBIES, — Sula, — very  much  resemble  the  preceding, 
but  their  beak  is  straight,  slightly  arcuate  at  the  point  and  armed 
on  the  edges,  with  teeth,  the  points  of  which  are  directed    back- 
wards ;  the  throat,  as  well  as  the  vicinity  of  the  eyes,  is  naked, 
and    but   little   extensible  ;  the  wings  are  less  than  those  of  the 
Frigate  bird,  and  the  tail  is  a  little  wedge-shaped.     They  obtain 
their  name  of  Boobies  from  the  stupidity  they  display  in  submit- 
ting to  the  attacks  of  man  and  animals. 

26.  The  DARTERS, — Plotus,—  (lj/ate  6,   fig.  8)  resemble  the 
Cormorants  in  the  form  of  their  l}ody,  and  in  their  feet,  but  are 
distinguished  from  them  by  the  length  of  their  neck,  their   small 
head,  and  by  their  straight,  slender  and  pointed  beak,  which  is 
dentate  on  the  edges.     They  inhabit  the  warm  countries  of  both 
hemispheres,  and  their  habits  are  nearly  the  same  as  those  of  the 
preceding. 

27.  The  Tropic  Birds,— P/ueton,— differ  from  the  other  Toti- 
palmatas  in  having  the  head  entirely  feathered,  and  by  the  two 
long,  straight  feathers    of  the  tail,  which  at  a  distance  resemble 

23.  What  are  the  characters  of  Frigate   Birds? 

24.  What  are  the  habits  of  Frigate  birds  {     Why  are  they  called  Man-ofl 
war  birds  ? 

25.  What  are  the  characters  of  Boobies  ? 

26.  What  are  Darters  ? 

27.  What  are  the  characters  of  Tropic  birds  ?     Why  are  they  so  called  ? 


LAMELLTROSTRES.  107 


straws.  They  seldom  resort  to  the  land  except  to  breed,  and 
rarely  quit  the  torrid  zone.  Their  appearance  is  an  indication 
to  navigators  of  their  vicinity  to  that  region. 

FAMILY  OF  LAMELLIROSTRES. 

28.  The  Palmipedes  of  this  family  have  a  thick  beak,  covered 
with  a  soft  skin  rather  than  true  horn,  and  its  edges  are  furnished 
with  lamellae  or  little  teeth,  (I'tate  6,  /?#.  6,  7,  and  9.  and  Plate 
8,  jig.  14.) ;  the  tongue  is  large  and  fleshy,  and  dentate  on  its 
edges ;  they  have  three  toes  in  front,  united  by  membranes,  and 
one  behind,  which  is  free  Their  wings  are  of  moderate  length, 
and  they  live  more  on  fresh  waters  than  at  sea. 

They  are  divided  in  the  following  manner : 

LAMELLIROSTRES, 
having    the    beak 


3 
8.  oa 


2&  What  are  the  characters  of  Palmipedes  ? 


108  SWANS.— GEESE. 


29.  All  the  Palmipedes  of  the  TRIBE  OF  DUCKS,  which  naturalists 
distinguish  under  the  name  of  ANAS,  have   a  moderate,    strong, 
straight  beak,  which  is  more  or  less    depressed,  convex  above, 
flat  below,  rounded  at  the  end,  and  terminated  by  a  smooth  scale 
in  the  form  of  a  nail.     The  edges  of  each  mandible   are  armed 
with  little  projecting  lamellae,  which  are  delicate  and  placed  trans- 
versely, and  seem  designed  to  permit  the   escape  of  water  after 
the  animal  has  seized  its  prey.     Their  food  consists   of  fishes, 
mollusca,  insects,  grains,  &c.     To  obtain  their  nourishment,  some 
submerge  themselves  entirely,  while  others  remain  on  the  surface, 
and  only  plunge  in  their  head  and  long  neck.     They  are  seldom 
on  land. 

30.  This  tribe  is  composed  of  Swans,  Geese,  and  Duc^s  properly 
so  called. 

31.  The  SWANS,— Cygnns,—  (Plate  6,  fig.  9.)  are  the  largest 
birds  of  this  group,  and  are  distinguished  by  the  form  of  the  beak 
which  is  as  wide  in  front  as  it  is  behind,  and  higher  than  it  is  wide 
at  its  base.     They  feed  chiefly  on  grains,  and  the  roots  of  aquatic 
plants.     They  swim  with  such  facility,  that  a  man  walking  rapidly 
along  the  shore  would  have  difficulty  in  keeping  up  with  them, 
and  they  fly  with  a  great  deal  of  lightness  and  strength.  Whether 
on  the  water  or  in  the  air,  they  are  almost  always  seen  in  troops. 
Their  young  quit  the  nest,  swim  and  eat  alone  immediately  after 
they  are  hatched.     Their  down,  which  is  very  fine,  serves  for 
many  purposes.     Their  plumage  is  generally  white. 

32.  These  birds  have  long  been  celebrated  for  the  beauty  of 
their  form,  and  for  the  grace   with  which  they  swim.     Their 
trachea  is  bent  on  the  sternum,  but  their  voice  is  not   rendered 
therefore  more  agreeable,  and  the  ancients  have  very  gratuitously 
given  celebrity  to  the  song  of  the  Swan. 

33.  In  New  Holland,  there  is  a  Black  Swan,  which  is  the  size 
of  the   common  species,   but   its   carriage   is  less  graceful  and 
elegant. 

34.  GEESE, — Jlnser, —  have  a  moderate  or  short  beak,  narrower 
before  than  behind,  and  higher  than  wide  at  its  base;  their  legs 
which   are   longer  than    those  of  Ducks  properly  so  called,  and 
placed   nearer  to  the   middle   of  the  body,  give  them   greater 
facility  in  walking".     They  feed  on    aquatic   plants   and   grains. 

29.  How   are   Palmipedes  of  the  tribe  ot*  Ducks  characterised  ?     Upon 
what  do  they  feed  ? 

30.  What  genera  compose  the  tribe  of  Ducks? 
39.  What  are  the  characters  of  Swans? 

32    What  is  peculiar  in  the  trachea  oi  Swans  ? 

33.  Are  all  Swans  white  ? 

34.  What  are  the  characters  of  Geese  ?     What  are  their  habitaT 


DUCKS.— EIDERS.  109 


They  live  almost  constantly  on  great  humid  prairies  and  vast 
marshes.  Wild  geese  live  in  numerous  troops  and  always  have 
some  of  them  on  the  watch :  they  are  extremely  suspicious. 
The  males  are  not  distinguishable  from  the  females  by  the  colour 
of  their  plumage;  they  moult  but  once  a  year;  their  voice  is 
strong  and  clamorous.  They  breed  on  the  ground,  swim  little, 
and  do  not  dive  at  all.  They  fly  in  flocks,  in  two  lines  in  the  form 
of  an  angle,  or  in  a  single  line,  when  the  troop  is  numerous ;  the 
one  which  is  at  the  point  of  the  angle,  or  at  the  head  of  the  line, 
falls  into  the  rear  when  fatigued,  and  they  all  succeed  each  other 
in  turn. 

35.  DUCKS  PROPERLY  so  CALLED, — Jlnas, — (Plate   6,  fig.    6.) 
comprise  species  almost  all  of  which  resemble  each  other,  but  still 
differ  in  slight  particulars.     They  differ  from  Swans  and  Geese, 
not  only  in  their  beak,  but  also  in  being  much  smaller  and  having 
a  shorter  neck  ;  their  trachea  is  inflated  at  its  bifurcation. 

36.  Ducks   are  spread   through   all  the  marshy  or  maritime 
countries  of  the  globe.     They  are  aquatic  and    migratory,   and 
approach  the  sea  coast  in  flocks  during  autumn  and  winter,  but 
frequent  fresh  water  ponds,  lakes  and  rivers,  particularly   those 
with  grassy  and  sedgy  borders ;  they  prefer  shallow    places   in 
which  they  can  fathom  the  bottom  with  the   beak  without   the 
necessity  of  diving  deeply,  to  which  they  only  have  recourse  in 
the  breeding  season,  or  to  avoid  their  enemies.     The  species  are 
numerous,  but  they  are  most  abundant  in  temperate  regions. 

37.  Ducks  are  divided  into  Sea-ducks,  Eiders,  Common  Duckst 
Teals,  &c. 

The  Common  Duck  has  been  long  domesticated,  and  inhabits 
all  our  poultry  yards. 

38.  [The  Canvass   Backed  Duck, — Anas  valisneria, — so  well 
known  as  a  delicacy  of  the  table,  is  a  species  peculiar  to  the  con- 
tinent of  America.     It  is  of  a  steel  gray ;  beak  straight,  nearly 
two  and  a  half  inches  long,  its  sides  parallel.     The  Male  is  white 
waved  with  black ,  the  head  tinged  with  black  anteriorly,  and 
the  neck  glossy  chestnut :  a  black  pectoral  belt.     Female,   dull 
whitish,  waved  with  black ;  head,  neck,  and  breast,  brownish.] 

39.  The  Eider,— Anas 'nioUissima.— (Somateria,)  is  a  species 
of  Duck  celebrated  for  the  down  which  It  furnishes,  known  under 
the  name  of  Eider  down.     The  male  is  nearly  two  feet  long,  and 

35    What  are  Ducks  properly  so  called  ?     What  is  the  peculiarity  of  the 
trachea  in  Ducks  properly  so  called  ? 

36.  What  are  the  habits  of  Ducks  ? 

37.  How  are  Ducks  divided  I 

38.  How  is  the  Canvass  Backed  Duck  characterised  ? 

39.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Eider  ?    How  is  Eider  down  obtained  ? 


110  MERGANSERS. 


its  alar  extent  is  about  two  feet  eight  inches  ;  it  is  whitish,  with 
the  front,  and  sides  of  the  crown,  belly,  and  tail,  black.  The 
female,  which  is  smaller,  is  gray,  speckled  brown.  Clothed  in  a 
thick  fur,  the  Eiders  brave  the  rigours  of  the  coldest  countries, 
and  advance  as  far  as  Spitzbergen.  The  down  which  they  pluck 
from  the  breast  and  belly  to  line  their  nest,  is  sought  for  with  a 
great  deal  of  pains  in  those  countries  where  these  birds  are 
common :  it  is  the  softest,  the  lightest,  the  warmest,  and  most 
elastic  of  all  downs,  that  which  is  plucked  from  the  dead  bird  is 
of  inferior  quality. 

40.  The  genus  of  MERGANSERS, — Merpvs,— comprises  those 
Palmipede  Lamellirostres  that  have  a  moderate  or  long,  straight, 
slender  beak,  in  the  form  of  an  elongated  and  almost  cylindrical 
cone,  wide  at  the  base,  and  the  point  of  the  upper  mandible  is 
very  much  curved  and  hooked.  The  edges  of  both  mandibles 
are  serrated,  and  the  teeth  are  directed  backwards,  ( Plate  6, 
jfip.  7.);  the  nostrils  are  about  the  middle  of  the  beak  ;  the  feet 
are  short,  and  the  toes  are  entirely  palmate  ;  the  posterior  toe  is 
free,  and  has  a  border.  These  birds  swim  perfectly,  often  having 
only  their  head  above  water,  and  they  dive  still  better ;  their 
flight  is  rapid  and  sustained,  but  from  the  posterior  position  of 
their  feet,  they  are  scarcely  capable  of  walking,  tottering  from 
side  to  side  with  the  utmost  embarrassment.  In  other  respects 
they  resemble  Ducks.  They  dwell  habitually  in  cold  countries, 
and  are  only  seen  commonly  in  temperate  climates  on  the 
approach  of  winter.  Of  the  five  species  known,  one  is  peculiar 
to  America,  the  Hooded  Merganser,—  Mergus  cucullatus, — and 
all  are  found  on  this  continent. 

We  next  proceed  to  study  the  REPTILES,  which  form  the  THIRD 
CLASS  OP  THE  BRANCH  OP  VERTEBRATA. 

40.  What  are  the  characters  of  the  Mergansers  ? 


END    OP   THE    THIRD    BOOK    OF   NATURAL   HISTORY. 


ORNITHOLOGY. 


GLOSSARY. 


ACUMINATE, 
ACUMINATED. 


ABDOMEN.  —  From  the  Latin  abdere, 
to  conceal  ;  the  belly.  The  chief 
viscera  contained  in  the  abdomen, 
are  the  stomach,  intestines,  liver, 
&c.  &.c. 

ACCIPITRES.  —  From  the  Latin  acci- 
pere,  to  seize  hold  of.  Systematic 
name  of  the  order  of  birds  of  prey. 

)    From  the  Latin  acu- 
f  a    gh 

^  Ending  in  a 

,/EANTHE.  —  From  the  Greek  aemt, 
which  is  from  aed  or  ad,  to  agitate, 
and  ant  he,  a  flower. 

AEDON.  —  From  the  Greek  aedon,  a 
songster,  which  is  derived  from 
aeido,  I  sing.  A  term  applied  to 
many  birds. 

AERIAL.—  From  the  Latin  aerius:  be- 
longing to  the  air. 

.  —  Latin.    Rusty. 
SAI.ON.  —  Latin.    Name  of  a  kind 
of  Falcon. 

.  —  Latin.     Belonging   or  re- 
lating  to  summer. 

ALAR  (  Extent.  )  —  From  the  Latin 
ala,  a  wing.  Belonging  or  rela- 
ting to  the  wings.  A  term  used 
in  speaking  of  the  stretch  of  the 
expanded  wings. 

ALAUDA.  —  Latin.     A  laik. 

ALBINO.  —  Spanish,  formed  from  the 
Latin  albus,  white.  This  word  is 
employed  to  designate  those  indi- 
viduals ofthe  human  race  who  have 
the  skin  and  hair  white,  the  iris 
very  pale  and  bordering  on  red  or 
pink  ;  and  the  eyes  so  sensible, 
that  they  cannot  bear  the  light  of 
day.  The  word  is  also  applied  to 
animals  of  the  lower  orders  that 
are  similarly  characterised. 

ALCA.  —  The   systematic  name  of  a 
tribe  of  web-  footed  birds. 
10 


ALCEDO.  —  Latin  name  of  the  King- 
fisher. 

ALCYON.  —  From  the  Greek,  alkuon, 
which  is  formed  from  als,  the  sea, 
and  kud,  I  produce.  (The  Hal- 
cyon,  the  name  of  a  fabulous  bird 
ofthe  ancienls,  which  was  sup- 
posed to  build  its  nest  on  the  sea, 
at  a  season  when  it  was  presumed 
to  be  calm.  This  season  embraced 
a  period  of  fourteen  days,  which 
were  called  the  Halcyon  days.) 
The  specific  name  of  a  kingfisher. 

ALECTOR.  —  From  the  Greek,  alektor, 
the  domestic  cock. 

ALPESTRIS.  —  Latin.  Belonging  or  re- 
lating to  the  Alps. 

Modern  Latin.    Be- 


AMPELIS.  —  From  the  Greek,  ompe- 
leon,  a  singing  bird.  The  systema- 
tic name  ofthe  crown  birds. 

ANALOGOUS.  —  From  the  Greek,  owa, 
between,  and  logos,  reason.  Hav- 
ing some  resemblance  or  relation, 
though  differing  in  essential  par- 
ticulars.  Similar. 

ANAS.  —  From  the  Greek,  nessa,  a 
duck,  which  is  formed  from  neo,  I 
swim.  The  systematic  name  of 
the  tribe  of  ducks. 

ANCHYLOSED.  —  From  the  Greek,  ag- 
kulos,  crooked.  A  joint  that  has 
become  stiff  and  immoveable  is 
said  to  be  anchylosed. 

ANSER.  —  Latin.     A  goose. 

ANTHUS.  —  Latin.  Name  ofthe  Tit- 
lark or  Meadow-lark. 

APPARATUS.  —  Latip,  ad,  for,  and  par- 
are  to  prepare  ;  a  collection  of  in- 
struments  or  organs  for  any  opera 
tion  whatever.     An  assemblage  or 
organs.     In  Latin  this  word  is  the 


112 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


same  in  the  plural — but  in  English 
some  writers  make  the  plural, 
apparatuses. 

^PIASTER. — Modern  Latin,  formed 
from  apis,  a  b  e.  The  specific 
name  of  the  common  Bee  eater. 

APIVORUS  — From  the  Lutin,  apis,  a 
bee,  and  vorare,  to  eat.  Bee-eat- 
ing One  that  eats  bees. 

APPENDICES  — The  plural  of  appendix. 

APPENDIX. — Latin, ad,  to,  and  pendcre 
to  hang;  something  added.  Any 
part  that  adheres  to  an  organ,  or 
is  continuous  wi'h  it. 

APODA — From  the  Greek,  a,  wi'hout, 
and  pous,  (in  the  genitive,  podos,) 
a  fliot.  Without  feet.  Applied 
to  birds  of  Paradise,  because  it 
was  once  supposed  they  had  no 
feet. 

APTENODYTES. — From  the  Greek,  a, 
privative — ptenos,  winded  ;  having 
the  power  of  flying,  and  dutes,  a 
diver.  The  systematic  name  of 
Penguins, 

APUS. — Latin.  Specific  name  of  the 
common  Martin. 

AQUATICUS. — Latin.  Aquatic.  Rela- 
ting or  belonging  to  water. 

AQUILA. — Lutin.     An  Eagle. 

ARA.         )     Systematic  names  of  a 

ARACARI.  ^  Maccaw. 

ARCHIPELAGO.  —  From  the  Greek, 
arche,  beginning,  and  pelapos,  sea; 
an  extent  of  sea  sprinkled  with 
islands. 

ARCUATE. — From  the  Latin,  arcuo, 
I  bend  like  a  bow.  Bent  like  a 
bow;  bow-shaped. 

ARDEA. — Latin.     A  Heron. 

ARGONAUTS. — From  the  Greek,  argo, 
the  name  of  a  vessel,  and  nautes, 
a  navigator.  The  name  of  the 
ancient  Grecian  princes  who  sailed 
on  board  of  the  ship  Argo  with 
Jason,  to  conquer  the  golden  fleece. 

ARGUS. — The  name  of  a  hero  in  my- 
thology, who  was  said  to  have  had 
a  hundred  eyes,  fifty  of  which 
were  open  while  the  other  fifty 
slept;  after  his  death,  Juno  changed 
him  into  a  peacock.  From  the 
spots  in  its  tail,  sometimes  called 


eyes,  this  name  has  been   applied 
to  a  species  of  Pheasant. 

ARTICULATE — Fiom  the  Latin,  arti- 
culus,  which  is  the  diminut  ve  of 
arlus,  a  limb,  which  is  derived  from 
tt.e  Greek,  arthron,  a  joint.  To 
join  or  j<  int.  To  form  words  ;  t@ 
utter. 

ARTICULATION. — A  joint. 

ARVENSJS. — L  tin.  Formed  froir 
atvum,  a  field.  Relating  or  be- 
longing to  fields. 

ASTUR — Systematic  name  of  the 
Gothawks. 

AURA. — Latin.  An  air  oi  emanation. 
The  specific  name  of  a  kind  oi 
Vulture. 

AURATUS. — Latin.  Gilded  ;  golden. 
Belonging  or  relating  to  gold. 

BARB. — From  the  Latin,  barba,  a 
beard.  The  filaments  which  are 
attached  to  two  sides  of  the  stalk 
of  a  feather,  are  called  barbs  or 
beards. 

BARBULE. — The  diminutive  of  barb, 
and  is  applied  to  designate  the 
filaments  which  are  found  on  the 
edges  of  the  barbs,  composing  a 
feather. 

BARBARUS. — Latin.  Foreign  ;  bar- 
barous; cruel. 

BARBATUS  — Latin.  Bearded  ;  hav- 
ing a  beard. 

BASE  OF  SUPPORT. — The  space  com- 
pri-ed  between  the  points  by  which 
an  ohject  supports  itself  upon  a 
resL^tant  body. 

BEAK. — The  bill  or  horny  rnouth  of  a 
bird. 

BEC-FIGUE. — Fiench  name  of  the  Tit- 
lark. 

BECCA  PICA — Italian  name  of  the  Tit- 
lark. 

BICOLOR. — Latin.     Particoloured. 

BIFID. — From  the  Latin,  bis,  twice, 
andjindcre,  to  split.  Split  or  di- 
vided into  two  separate  parts. 

BIFURCATE — Fiom  the  Latin,  bis, 
twice,  and  furcrt,  a  fork.  Divided 
or  separated  into  two  [tranches. 

BIFURCATION. — From  the  Latin,  bis, 
twice,  and  furc/t,  a  fork.  The 
point  where  two  branches  separate. 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


113 


BOMBYCILLA. — From  the  Greek,  bom- 
bux,  a  silk  worm.  The  systematic 
name  of  the  Chatterers. 

BRACHYPTER/E. —  From  the  Greek, 
brachus,  short,  and  pteron,  a  wing. 
Having  short  wings.  The  syste- 
matic name  of  a  family  of  divers. 

BREVIPENNES. — From  the  Latin,  bre- 
?ns,  short,  and  penna,  a  wing. 
Having  short  wings.  The  syste- 
matic name  of  a  family  of  the  order 
of  wading  birds. 

BRONCHIA. — The  singular  of 

BRONCHIA. — From  the  Greek,  btog- 
chos,  the  throat.  The  two  b  anches 
of  the  wind-pipe  which  convey  air 
to  the  lungs. 

BUBO. — Latin.     An  Owl. 

BUCEROS. — From  the  Latin,  buccrus, 
horned.  The  systematic  name  of 
the  Calaos  dr  hornbilla. 

BULB. — From  the  Greek,  bolbos,  a 
round  root.  A  name  given  by  an- 
atomists, to  various  parts  which 
resemble  certain  bulbous  roots  in 
shape. 

BULBUS. — Latin.  A  bulb,  bulbus 
glandulosus,  is  the  second  stomach 
of  birds. 

BUPHAGA. — From  the  Greek,  bous, 
an  Ox,  and  phagcin,  to  eat.  Sys- 
tematic name  of  the  beef-eaters. 

BUTEO. — Latin.     A  Buzzard. 

CALIFORNIANUS. — Latin.   Californian. 

CALLOUS. — From  the  Latin,  callus, 
hardness.  That  which  is  hard,  or 
indurated. 

CAMEI.US. — Latin.    Camel 

CANADENSIS. — Latin.  Canadian.  Be- 
longing  or  relating  to  Canada. 

CANARIA. — Latin.  Belonging  or  re- 
lating to  the  Canary  Islands. 

CANCROMA — The  generic  name  ot 
the  Boatbills. 

CANNABINA.  —  Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  hemp.  The  specific 
name  of  the  Linnet. 

CAPISTRUM. — The  sides  of  the  head 
immediately  behind  the  bill. 

CAPRIMULGU.S. — Latin.  A  milker  of 
goats.  Systematic  name  of  the 
Goatsuckers,  which  is  derived  from 
a  notion  entertained  by  the  vulgar, 


of  their  sucking  goats,  and  even 
cows. 

CARAVAN. — From  the  Persian,  kerra. 
ouan,  an  assemblage  of  persons 
travelling  together.  A  troop  of 
travellers,  merchants  or  pilgrim?, 
who,  for  greater  security,  cross  the 
deserts  and  other  places  infested 
by  Arabs  and  highwaymen,  in 
company. 

CARDIA. — From  the  Greek,  kardia, 
the  heart.  The  left  opening  of 
the  stomach,  where  the  oesophagus 
enters  it. 

CARDUELIS — Latin.  A  bird  feeding1 
among  thistles.  Specific  name  of 
the  Goldfinch. 

CARNEOUS. — From  the  Latin,  caro, 
(  in  the  genitive,  carnis,  flesh. ) 
Belonging  or  relating  to  flesh; 
fleshy. 

CARNIVOROUS. — From  the  Latin,  coro, 
carnis,  flesh,  and  voro,  I  eat.  Ani- 
mals that  feed  on  flesh  are  said  to 
be  carnivorous. 

CAROLINE.NSIS.  —  Latin.  Carolinian. 
Belonging  to  Carolina. 

CARPAL. — Belonging  or  renting  to 
the  carpus. 

CARPUS. — From  the  Greek,  karpos, 
the  wrist.  The  p;irt  between  the 
fore-arm  and  hand. 

CARTILAGE. — Gristle.  A  solid  part  of 
the  animal  body  of  medium  con- 
sistence between  bone  arid  liga- 
ment. 

CARTILAGINOUS.  —  Partaking  of  the 
nature  of  cartilage. 

CARUNCLK. — From  the  Latin  carvn- 
cula,  the  diminutive  of  caro,  flesh. 
A  small  portion  of  flesh  ;  a  fleshy 
excrescence  ;  the  gills  of  a  cock,  fbr 
example. 

CASUARIUS. — Latin.     A  Cassowary. 

CASSOWARY. — From  the  Malay  name 
of  this  bird,  CasuWftrift. 

CATHARTES. —  From  the  Gieek,  kath- 
arfes,  one  who  puiifies.  The  gen- 
eric name  of  certain  Vultures. 

CENTRE  OF  GRAVITY.  —  The  name 
given  to  the  point  about  which  all 
points  of  a  bwdy  reciprocally  bal- 
ance each  other. 


114 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


r  A  coloured  membrane  in- 
CKRA.J  vesting-  the  base  of  the  upper 
CERE.  I  mandible:  as  in  Hawks,  and 

^a  few  other  birds. 
CERTHIA. — The  systematic  name  of 
the  Creepers. 

CERVICAL — From  the  Latin,  cervix, 
the  neck.  Belonging  or  relating 
to  the  neck. 

CETACEA. — In  Latin,  cetaceus,  which 
is  formed  from  the  Gieek,  ketos,  a 
whale.  Naturalists  use  the  word 
to  designate  piscifonn  mammals 
that  have  fins  in  place  of  feet,  and 
inhabit  the  sea. 

CHARADRIUS. — Latin.  (A  bird,  the 
seeing  of  which,  it  was  supposed, 
cured  those  that  had  the  jaundice.) 
The  generic  name  of  the  Plover. 

CH^ETURA. — Systematic  name  of  the 
Swifts. 

CHYLE.  —  From  the  Greek,  chulos, 
Butritious  juice.  A  nutritive  fluid 
of  a  whitish  appearance,  which  is 
extracted  from  food  by  the  action 
ef  the  digestive  organs. 

CHYLIFEROUS. — From  the  Latin,  cJiy- 
lus,  chyle,  and/ero,  I  carry.  Carry- 
ing or  conveying  chyle. 

CICONIA. — Latin.     A  Stork. 

CILIATED  (tongue) — When  the  tongue 
is  edged  with  fine  bristles,  as  in 
ducks. 

CINCLUS. — From  the  Greek,  kigklos, 
name  of  a  bird.  Generic  name  of 
the  Water-thrush. 

f       Formed    from    the 

CINERACEUS.  I  Latin,   cineres,   ashes. 

CINEREA.       •{  Belonging  or  relating 

CINEREUS.      j  to  ashes  ;  ashy  ;    ash- 
^coloured. 

CIRCUS.— Latin.  A  gentle  Falcon. 
The  generic  name  ot  the  Harriers. 

CITRINELLA. — Latin.  Formed  from 
citrvs,  a  citron  tree.  The  specific 
name  of  the  Ye'low  Bunting. 

CLAVICLE. — From  the  Latin,  clavis,  a 
key.  The  collar-bone. 

CLEFT. — A  space  made  by  the  sepa- 
ration of  parts;  a  crack;  a  crevice. 
The  line  of  separation  betwixt  the 
two  mandible?,  shows  to  what  dis- 
tance the  beak  is  cleft  from  its  point. 


CLOACA. — From  the  Greek,  kluzn,  I 
wash.  The  pouch  at  the  extremity 
of  the  intestinal  canal,  in  which 
the  solid  and  liquid  excretions  are 
commingled  in  birds,  fishes,  and 
reptiles. 

COCCOTHRAUSTES. — From  the  Greek, 
kokkos,  a  kernel,  a  grain,  and 
thrauo,  I  break.  The  systematic 
name  of  the  Grosbeaks. 

CCECA,  or  C^ECA. — Plural  of  Coecum. 

CCECUM,  or  CAECUM. — From  the  Latin, 
c&cus,  blind.  The  blind  gut,  so 
called  from  its  being  perforated  at 
one  end  only. 

CCELEBS.  —  Latin.  Unmarried,  soli- 
tary, lonely. 

COLLURIO, — From  the  Greek,  kollad, 
I  join  or  fasten  together.  The 
specific  name  of  the  Butcher  Bird. 

COLUBRIS. — The  specific  name  of  a 
Humming  Bird. 

COLUMBA. — Latin.     A  Pigeon. 

COLYMBUS. — From  the  Greek,  kolum- 
bao,  I  dive.  Systematic  name  of 
the  Divers. 

COMMISSURE. — From  the  Latin,  com- 
mitto,  I  join  together.  A  point  of 
union  between  two  paits.  The 
point  where  the  two  mandibles 
are  joined  is  called  the  commis- 
sure of  the  beak. 

COMMUNIS. — Latin.     Common. 

COMPRESSED  (  beak. ) — Flattened  at 
the  sides  vertically. 

CONCHA. — The  ho  low  part  of  the  car 
tilage  of  the  external  ear. 

CONIROSTRES — From  the  Latin, conns, 
a  cone,  and  rostrum,  a  beak.  The 
systematic  name  of  a  family  of 
passerine  birds. 

CORACOID. — From  the  Greek,  korax, 
a  crow,  and  eidos,  resemblance. 
Resembling  the  beak  of  a  crow. 
The  coracoid  bone  is  the  posterior 
clavicle  of  birds. 

CORAX. — Latin.     A  Raven. 

CORNU. — Latin.     A  horn. 

CORVUS. — Latin,     A  Crow. 

COSMOPOLITE. — From  the  Greek,  kos- 
tttos,  world,  and  polites,  citizen.  A 
citizen  of  the  world.  Peculiar  to 
no  country. 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


115 


COTURNIX. — Latin.     A  Quail. 

COURSER. — A  race  horse. 

COVERTS. — The  small  flathers  which 
lie  in  several  rows  on  the  bones  of 
the  wings  are  called  the  Lesser 
coverts  ;  those  that  line  the  under 
side  of  the  wings,  the  Under 
coverts;  those  feathers  that  lie  im 
mediately  over  the  quill  feathers, 
and  secondaries,  are  the  Greater 
coverts;  and  the  1 'ail  coverts,  are 
those  feathers  that  cover  the  tail 
on  the  upper  side,  at  the  base. 

CRANIUM. — From  the  Greek,  kranon, 

•     head.     Tne  skull. 

CREPITANS. — Latin.  Cackling,  ring- 
ing, making  a  noise,  rattling, 
chattering. 

CREPUSCULAR. —  From  the  Latin,  cre- 
pusculum,  twilight.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  twilight. 

CREX. — From  the  Greek,  Jcrex,  a  bird ; 
the  Rail. 

CRISTATUS. — Latin.  Tufted,  combed, 
crested  ;  wearing  a  crest. 

CRUSTACEA. — From  the  Latin,  crusta, 
a  crust.  A  class  of  animals  whose 
bodies  are  enclosed  in  a  covering 
like  the  crab. 

CUCULLATUS — Latin.  Hooded,cowled. 

CUCULUS. — Latin.     Cuekno. 

CUL-DE-SAC. — French.  A  blind  alley  ; 
literally,  a  bag  bottom. 

CULTRATE. — From  the  Latin,  culler, 
a  knife.  Sharp  and  cutting  on  the 
edges. 

CULTRIROSTRES.  —  From  the  Latin, 
culler,  (in  the  genitive,  cultri,)  a 
knife,  and  rostrum,  beak.  Syste- 
matic name  of  a  family  of  Gral- 
latoria%  characterised  by  a  beak 
with  sharp  edges. 

CUNEATE. — From  the  Latin,  cuneus, 
a  wedge ;  wedge-shaped. 

CUNEIFORM. — From  the  Latin,  cuneus, 
a  wedge,  and  forma,  form.  In  the 
form  of  a  wedge;  wedge-shaped. 

CUPIDO.  —  Latin.  Desire,  appetite, 
gluttony. 

CURRUCA.  —  Latin.  A  Tom-tit,  a 
Hedge-sparrow. 

CURVATE. —  Bowed,  bent. 
10* 


CURVIROSTRA. — From  the  Latin,  cur- 
vus,  bent,  bowed  ;  and  rostrum, 
beak.  Having  the  beak  bent  or 
bowed. 

CYGNUS. — Latin.     A  Swan. 

CYPSELUS.  —  Latin.  A  Martin  or 
Swallow. 

DENTATE. — From  the  Latin,  Jens,  a 
tooth.  Toothed  or  notched. 

DENTIROSTRES — From  the  Latin  dens, 
a  tooth,  (in  the  genitive,  dentis,) 
and  rostrum,  beak.  Systematic 
name  of  a  family  of  passerine 
birds. 

DEPRESSOR. — Muscles,  whose  func- 
tion is  to  depress  certain  parts  are 
so  called. 

DEPRESSED  (beak.) — Flattened  hori- 
zontally 

DIAPHRAGM. — From  the  Greek,  dia- 
phragma,  a  partition.  The  fleshy 
or  muscular  partition  between  the 
cavity  of  the  chest  and  cavity  of 
the  abdomen. 

DIOMEDEA. —  The  ancient  name  of 
certain  birds  of  the  island  of 
Diomedes,  near  Tarentum,  which 
were  said  to  receive  the  Greeks 
favourably,  and  to  attack  the  bar- 
barians.  The  systematic  name  of 
the  Albatross. 

DISPOSITION. — From  the  Latin,  dis~ 
pono,  I  place  or  set  in  order.  Ar- 
rangement or  placing  of  parts. 

DIURNAL.  —  From  the  Latin,  dies, 
day.  Belonging  or  rela'ing  to  the 

day. 

DIURN^E. —  Systematic   name   of   a 

division  of  the  birds  of  prey. 
DOLICHONYX. — From  the  Greek,  doli- 

chos,  long,  and  onvx,a  riail,  a  claw, 

Generic  name  of  the  Rice  Bird. 
DOMESTICA. — Latin.     Domestic. 
DUCT  (Thoracic.) — The  canal  or  duct 

which  conveys  the  chyle  into  the 

blood. 
ECHKLETTE. — French.  A  little  ladder. 

Systematic  name  of  the  Creepers. 
EMBERIZA.  —  Generic  name   of   the 

Buntings. 
ERECTILE. — From  the  Latin,  erigere, 

to   became   erect.    Susceptible  of 

erection. 


116 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


ERYTHAUUS. — From  the  Greek,  frith- 
akos,  an  unknown  bird  that  was 
taught  to  imitate  words.  The  spe- 
cific name  of  the  Gray  Parrot. 

ERYTH  ;OCKPHALUS. — From  the  Greek 
eruthros,  red,  and  kephale^  head — 
Red-head.  The  systematic  name 
of  the  Woo.'l pecker. 

ESCULENTA. — Latin.  Esculent, edible. 

EUROPOEUS. — Latin.     European. 

EXCUBITOR — Latin.  One  that  watches 
by  night.  A  sentinel. 

EXTENSILE. — From  the  Latin  extendo, 
I  stretch.  Susceptible  of  being  ex- 
tended or  lengthened. 

EXTENSOR. — Muscles  whose  function 
is  to  extend  certain  parts  are  so 
called. 

EXTREMITIES. — From  the  Latin,  ex- 
tremus,  extreme  ;  the  end  of  a 
thing.  The  limbs  ;  the  legs  and 
arms;  in  birds, the  legs  and  wings. 

FALCO.— Latin.  (Formed  from /air, 
in  the  genitive /a/cis,)  a  hook,  a 
bill,  ar  scythe.  The  Falcon,  so 
called  from  the  shape  of  its  beak. 

FALCONRY. — The  art  of  hunting  with 
birds  of  prey. 

FAMILIARIS. — Latin.  Familiar.  Be- 
longing or  relating  to  a  family. 
Domestic. 

FEMUR.— Latin.     The  thigh  bone. 

FERRUGINRUS. — Latin.  Ferruginous. 
Of  the  colour  of  rusty  iron. 

FERRUGINOUS. — From  the  Latin,  fer- 
rugo,  rust  of  iron.  Of  the  colour 
of  iron  rust. 

FISSIROSTRES. — From  the  Latin,  fis- 
sura,  a  slit,  a  fissure,  which  is 
formed  from  fendere ,  to  cleave,  to 
divide,  and  rostrum^  a  beak. 
(Fissure  beaks.}  Systematic  name 
of  a  family  of  passerine  birds.  » 

FOSSA. — In  the  plural,  Fossae.  From 
the  Latin, /oroo,  I  dig.  A  cavity  of 
greater  or  less  depth,  the  entrance 
to  which  is  always  larger  than  the 
base.  The  nasal  fossae  are  two 
laige  cavities,  situate  between  the 
orbits  below  the  cranium,  and  lined 
by  the  pituitary,  or  schneiderian 
membrane  ;  the  internal  nostrils. 


FOURCHETTK. —  French.  A  fork.  The 
notch  formed  by  the  coracoid  bones 
and  sternum,  between  the  wings. 

FRINGILLA— Latin.  A  Chaffinch.  The 
systematic  name  of  the  Finches. 

FRONT. — The  forehead. 

FULICA. — Latin.     A  Coot. 

FULVUS. — Latin.  Of  a  deep  yellow, 
or  fawn  colour. 

FUNCTION. — From  the  Latin,  fungor, 
I  act,  or  discharge  an  office.  The 
action  of  an  organ  or  system  of 
organs. 

Fuscus. — Latin.     Brown. 

GALBULA. — Latin.     Name  of  a  bird. 

GALLINACE^E.  —  Formed  from  the 
Latin,  gallina,  a  hen.  The  sys- 
tematic name  of  an  order  of  birds. 

GALLINACEOUS. — Belonging  or  relat- 
ing to,  or  partaking  of  the  nature 
of  the  Gallinacrse. 

GALLINAGO. — Specific  name  of  the 
Snipe. 

GALLINULA. —  Systematic  name  of  the 
Water-hens/ 

GALLINAZA. — Spanish.  A  Turkey- 
buzzard. 

GALLUS. — Latin.     A  Cock. 

GARRULUS. — Latin.     Chattering. 

GENUS, — Latin.  A  kindred,  breed, 
race,  stock,  lineage,  or  family. 

GENERA. — Plural  of  genus. 

GENERIC. — Belonging  or  relating  to 
genus. 

GERFALCON. — From  the  Latin,  gyrvs, 
a  circuit,  and  falco,  a  falcon.  The 
falcon  that  flies  in  a  circle.  A 
kind  of  falcon. 

GIBBOUS. — From  the  Latin,  gibbus,  a 
bunch  or  swelling.  Bulging  or 
bunching  out, 

GIZZARD.  —  The  strong  muscular 
stomach  of  a  bird. 

GLACIALIS. — Latin.  Glacial.  Rela- 
ting to  ice. 

GLAND. — A  word  applied  to  desig- 
nate those  softish,  granular,  loba- 
ted  organs,  composed  of  vessels, 
nerves,  and  a  particular  structure, 
which  form  peculiar  secretions. 

GLANDARIUS. — Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  acorns. 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


117 


GLANDULOsus.-Latin.  Full  of  glands. 
The  bulhus  glandulosus,  is  the 
second  stomach  of  birds. 

GLOTTIS. — A  small  oblong  aperture, 
situate  at  the  upper  part  of  the 
larynx. 

GRALLATORI^E.  —  From  the  Latin, 
grallotor,  he  that  walks  on  stilts; 
a  stalker.  The  systematic  name 
of  Wading  birds. 

GRANIVOROUS. — From  the  Latin,  gra- 
num,  a  grain,  (of  any  kind  of  corn) 
and  vorure,  to  eat.  Grain-eating. 

GRANULE. — A  very  small  grain. 

GREGARIOUS. — From  ihe  Latin,  gre- 
garius,  of  a  flock,  which  is  formed 
from  grex,('m  the  genitive, gregis) 
a  flock  or  herd.  Going  in  flocks 
or  herds. 

GRIFFIN. — From  the  Latin,  gryphus, 
which  is  formed  from  the  Greek, 
grupos,  curved,  hooked.  (A  fabu- 
lous monster,  half  lion,  half  bird.) 
The  systematic  name  ef  a  tribe  of 
birds  of  prey. 

GRUS. —  Latin.     A  Crane. 

GRVPHUS. — Latin.     A  Griffin. 

GYPAETOS. — From  the  Greek,  gupaie- 
los,  a  kind  of  eagle ;  formed  from 
gups,  a  Vuhure,  and  aietos,  an 
Eagle. 

GYPOGER  ANUS.- From  the  Greek, gups, 
a  Vulture,  and  geranos,  a  bird,  ( a 
Crane.)  Generic  name  of  the  Sec- 
retary. 

H^MATOPUS. — From  the  Greek,  aima- 
topos,  having  a  fierce  or  sanguinary 
look  ;  formed  from  aima,  blood,  and 
ops,  an  eye.  The  generic  name  of 
the  Oyster-catchers. 

HALI.ETUS. —  From  the  Greek,  als, 
the  sea,  and  aietos,  an  eag!e.  The 
specific  name  of  the  Fisher  Eagle. 

HARPYIA — Latin.  A  harpy.  (Formed 
from  the  Greek,  arpux,  rapacious.) 

HKLIACA. — Specific  name  of  a  sort  of 
Eagle. 

HERBIVOROUS. — From  the  Latin  her- 
ba,  herb  or  plant,  and  vorare,  to 
eat.  Herb-eating.  Animals  that 
feed  chiefly,  or  entirely  on  herbs, 
or  plants, *are  herbivorous, 

HIKROFALCO. — Latin.    Gerfalcon. 


HIRUNDO. — Latin.   A  Swallow. 

HORTULANA.  —  Specific  name  of  a 
Bunting. 

HUMERUS. — The  bone  of  the  arm, 
which  is  situate  between  the  shoul- 
der joint  and  the  elbow. 

HYEMALIS.  —  Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  winter. 

HYOID. — From  the  Greek,  w,  and 
eidos,  resemblance.  Resembling 
the  shape  or  form  of  the  letter  U. 
The  Os  hyoid.es,  the  hyoiil  bone,  is 
a  very  moveablc  bony  arch,  placed 
horizontally,  in  the  substance  of  the 
soft  parts  of  the  neck,  at  the  root 
of  the  tongue.  It  does  not  articu- 
late with  any  other  bone  of  the 
skeleton,  and  is  only  connected  to 
it  through  the  medium  of  muscles 
and  ligaments. 

ICTERUS. — Latin.  (Name  of  a  yellow 
bird,  which,  if  one  see,  being  sick 
of  the  yellow  jaundice,  the  person 
recovers,  and  the  bird  dies.)  Sys- 
tematic name  of  the  Oriole. 

ILIACUS. — Systematic  name  of  a  kind 
of  Thrush^ 

IMPENNIS. — Latin,  (formed  from  pen- 
wa,  a  wing.)  Systematic  name  of 
the  Penguins  which  have  very  short 
wings. 

IMPERIALIS. — Latin.   Imperial,  royal. 

INCUBATION. — From  the  Latin,  incu- 
batio.  The  act  of  the  female  of 
oviparous  animals,  in  sitting  and 
remaining  on  her  eggs  for  the  pur- 
pose of  hatching  them. 

INDIGENOUS. — From  the  Latin,  inde, 
where,  and  genitvs,  born.  Applied 
to  the  natives  of  a  country ;  also, 
to  animals  that  inhabit  the  c  untry 
where  they  are  horn. 

iNGLuviEs.-Latin.  The  crop  of  a  bird. 

INSECTIVOROUS. — From  the  Latin,  in- 
secta,  insects,  and  torare,  to  eat 
Insect-eating.  Animals  that  feed 
on  insects  are  insectivorous. 

INVERTEBRATE. — Without  vertebrae. 

IRIS. — That  part  of  the  eye  in  which 
the  pupil  is  situate. 

IRIDES. — Plural  of  Iris. 

ISLANDICUS.  —  Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  Iceland. 


118 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


ISOLATK.  — (From  the  It.lian,  isola, 
an  island ;  because  one  who  is 
isolated,  lose-nbl-s  an  island  en- 
tirely surrounded  by  water.)  Sepa- 
rated, alone,  single. 

ISPJDA. — Systematic  name  of  a  King- 
fisher. 

JOTA. — Speci^c  name  of  a  Vulture. 

JUGULAR  — From  the  L-itin,  jugiilum, 
the  throat.  Belonging  or  relating 
to  the  throat. 

KINGLET. — A  little  king.  A  name 
of  the  Wren. 

L^EMER-GKVER  — German,  Lamb-vul- 
ture. 

LAGOPUS- — La'in.     Ptarmigan. 

LAMELLA — Latin.  A  li  tie  thin  plate 
or  pit  ce. 

LAMELLA. — Latin    Plural  ofLarnella. 

LAMKLLIROSTRES. — From  the  L  tin, 
lamella,  a  thin  pin  e,  and  rostrum., 
beak.  Systematic  name  of  a  family 
of  birds. 

LAMINA. — Latin.  A  pl.te,  or  thin 
pirce  of  metal  or  bone. 

LAMINAE. — Latin.    Plural  of  Lamina. 

LANIUS. — Generic  name  of  Shrikes. 

LARVA. — Latin.  A  mask.  An  insect 
after  it  has  left  the  egg,  and  before 
it  assumes  the  form  of  a  chrysali--, 
is  called  a  larva,  because  in  this 
state  it  is,  as  it  were,  masked. 

LARV.E. — L  .tin.     Plural  of  Larva. 

LARUS. —  Latin.    A  Sea-mew  or  Gull. 

LARYNX. —  From  the  Greek, larvtgx,  a 
whistle.  The  apparatus  of  voice. 
It  is  situate  at  the  superior  and  an- 
terior pnrt  of  the  neck  ;  and  at  the 
top  of  the  trachea,  with  which  it 
communicates. 

LEIJCOCEPHALUS. — From  the  Greek, 
letikos,  white,  and  kephule,  head. 
White-headed.  Specific  name  of 
the  Bald  Eaffle. 

LrmoFALCo. — Fiorn  the  Greek,  Whos, 
a  stone,  and  the  Latin,  falco,  a  fal- 
con. Specific  name  of  the  Merlin. 

LOBATE  (foot) — Toes  furni.-hed  on  the 
sides  with  broad  plain  membranes. 

LONGIPKNNES. —  From  the  Latin,  Ion- 
gus,  long,  and  penna,  a  wing. 
Long-winged.  Systematic  name 
of  a  family  of  web-footed  birds. 


Lo, \GIROSTRKS.  —  From  the  Latin, 
lowgus,  long,  and  rostrum,  beak. 
Long-beaked.  Systematic  name  of 
a  family  of  Waders. 

LOON. — The  name  of  a  bird,  from 
loom,  which  in  the  language  of  the 
Laplanders,  signifies  lame,  as  it 
cannot  walk  well. 

LORE. — A  naked  line  leading  from 
the  beak  to  the  eye. 

LOXIA. — From  the  Greek,  loxos,  ob- 
lique. Systematic  name  of  the 
Grosbeaks. 

LnsciMA. —  Lntin.    A  Nightingale. 

MACRODACTYLI  —  From  the  Greek, 
makros,  long,  and  daktulos,  a  finger 
(toe.)  Lomr-fingered.  Systematic 
name  of  a  tribe  of  Wading  birds. 

MVENURA,  or  M.EURA. — Generic  name 
ofthe  Lvres.  Probably  a  corruption 
from  the  Greek,  pandoura,  a  musi- 
cal instrument  resembling  a  lute. 

MAJOR. —  Latin.    Greater,  larger. 

MAMMAL. — Any  animal  having  teats 
for  siick'iiig  its  young,  is  called  a 
mammal. 

MANIHBLES. — From  the  Latin,  man- 
dare,  to  chew.  The  jaws  of  birds. 

MARSL'PIUM. — Latin.  A  pouch,  a  s..c. 

MASTICATION. — Fiom  the  Greek,  was- 
tichao,  I  chew.  The  ad  of  chew- 
ing food  to  impregnate  it  with  sali- 
va, and  prepare  it  for  the  digestion 
it  has  to  undergo  in  the  stomach. 

MELA \AETOS. — F  om  the  Greek,  mel- 
anos,  black,  and  aetos,  an  eagle. 
A  specific  name  of  the  Common 
Eagle. 

MELEAGRIS. — Latin.     A  Turkey. 

MEMBRANA. — Latin.     A  membrane. 

MEMBRANE. — A  name  given  to  dif- 
ferent thin  organs,  representing 
species  of  supple,  more  or  less 
elastic,  webs, 

MEMBRANOUS.— Belonging  to  mem- 
brane. 

MERGUS. — From  the  Latin,  mergo,  I 
put  under  water;  Generic  name 
of  the  Mergansers. 

MEROPS. — Latin.  A  bird  that  eats 
bees.  Generic  name  of  the  Bee- 
eaters. 

MERULA.— Latin.     A  Black  bird. 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


119 


METACARPUS  —  From  the  Greek,  meta, 
after,  and  karpos,  the  wrist.  That 
part  of  the  hand  which  is  between 
the  wrist  and  fingers. 

METATARSUS  —  From  the  Greek,  me/a, 
after,  and  torsos,  the  instep.  That 
part  of  the  foot  which  is  between 
the  instep  and  toes. 

MIGRATION.  —  The  act  of  going"  from 
one  country  to  dwell  in  another. 


MIGRATORY.  —  Having  the  habit  of  go- 
ing from  onR  country  to  sojourn  in 
another,  du;  ing  a  season. 

MILIARIA.  —  Latin.  A  bird  that  feeds 
upon  millet.  Specific  name  of  the 
common  Bunting. 

MILVUS.  —  Latin.     A  Kite. 

MINOR.  —  Latin.     Less,  smaller. 

MOLUSSIMA.  —  Latin.     Softest. 

MOLLUSCA.  —  From  the  Latin,  mollis, 
soft.  A  class  of  marine  animals 
without  vertebrte,  which  have  blood 
vessels,  a  spinal  marrow,  and  a  sim- 
ple body,  without  articulated  limbs. 

MoLLUscous.-Belonging  to  Mollusca. 

MONEDULA.  —  Latin.     A  Jackdaw. 

MONOGAMOUS.  —  From  the  Greek, 
monos,  one,  and  gamos,  marriage. 
Those  animals,  the  male  and  female 
of  which  are  paired  for  life,  are  said 
to  be  monogamous. 

MONOGAMY.  —  From  the  Greek,  monos, 
one,  single  ;  and  gamos,  marriage. 
The  state  or  condition  of  being 
married  only  to  one  person. 

MOTACILLA.  —  Latin.     A  Wag-tail. 

MOUETTE.—  French.  A  Sea-mew,  a 
Gull. 

MOULT.  —  To  change  the  feathers. 

MOULTING.  —  Changing  of  the  plu- 
mage, which  occurs  naturally  and 
periodically. 

MUSCICAPA.  —  From  the  Latin,  musca, 
a  rly,andcfl/?io,I  seize.  Fly-catcher. 

Musicus.  —  Latin.  Belonging  or  re- 
lating to  music. 

MUSTACHES.  —  From  the  Greek,  mus- 
tax,  the  upper  lip;  the  beard  on 
the  upper  lip.  The  beard  that  is 
permitted  to  grow  long  on  the 
upper  lip.  The  hairs  which  many 


animals  have  growing  about  the 
mouth. 

MYOTHERA.  —  From  the  Greek,  mus, 
a  mouse,  and  thereto,  I  hunt,  I 
catch.  The  systematic  name  of 
the  Ant  -Catchers.  (The  word 
would  be  better,  myrmothera,  from 
murmex,  an  ant,  and  therad.) 

NARES.  —  Latin.     The  nostrils. 

NATATION.  —  From  the  Latin,  natatio, 
swimming.  The  act  of  swimming, 
or  supporting  one's  self,  or  moving 
upon  the  water. 

NECTAR.  —  From  the  Greek,  nektar, 
which  is  formed  from  ne,  a  nega- 
tive, and  ktao,  I  kill,  because  nec- 
tar imparted  immortality.  The 
drink  of  the  heathen  gods.  A  cer- 
tain product  of  flowers,  which  is 
found  in  the  corolla,  but  which  docs 
not  belong  to  it. 

NICTITANS.  —  Latin.  Winking.  The 
membrana  nictitans,  is  a  sort  oi 
internal  eyelid,  found  in  many 
mammals,  and  in  all  birds. 

NIDIFJCATION  —  From  the  Latin  nidus, 
a  nest,  and  facere,  to  make.  The 
act  of  building  a  nest. 


Nisus.  —  Latin.     A  Sparrowhawk. 

NOCTUA.  —  Latin.     An  Owl. 

NOCTURNE.  —  Systematic  name  of 
nocturnal  birds  of  prey. 

NOSTRILS,  (Linear)  —  When  they  are 
extended  lengthwise  in  a  fine  with 
the  beak,  as  in  Diver?,  &c. 

NOSTRILS,  (Pervious)  —  When  they 
are  open,  and  may  be  seen  thiough 
from  side  to  side,  as  in  Gulls,  &c. 

NOV.E  HOLLANDI/E.  —  Latin.  Of  New 
Holland. 

NUMIDA,  (  Numidica.  )  —  Latin.  A 
Guinea  fowl. 

NUMENIUS.  —  From  the  Greek,  neos, 
new,  and  menp,  moon,  on  account 
of  their  crescent  shaped  beak. 
Generic  name  of  the  Curlews. 

OESOPHAGUS.  —  From  the  Greek,  oiso, 
I  curry,  and  phagein,  to  eat  The 
gullet.  The  membranous  canal, 
which  conveys  food  from  the  mouth 
to  the  stomach. 


120 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


(EsTRus. — Fiom  the  Greek,  oistros, 
strong  desire,  incitmrnt;  a  gad- 
fly. Systematic  name  of  a  family 
of  insects. 

OMNIVOROUS. — From  the  Latin,  omnis, 
all,  and  rorare  (o  eat.  Applied  to 
animals  that  eat  a  1  kinds  of  food, 
both  animal  and  vegetable. 

ONOCROTALUS. — From  the  Greek  onos, 
an  ass,  and  krotos,  noise.  Syste- 
matic name  of  the  Pelican. 

OFERCULUM. — Latin.  Formed  from 
operire,  to  cover.  The  small  door 
or  covet  which  closes  the  entranre 
to  a  shell.  A  bony,  moveable  plate 
which,  in  a  great  many  fishes, 
eoveis  the  ears  or  branchiae. 

ORGANIZATION. — The  mode,  or  man- 
n<T  of  structure  of  an  organized 
being. 

ORIOLUS. — From  the  Latin,  aureolus, 
of  the  colour  of  go'd.  Systematic 
name  of  the  Orioles. 

ORNITHOLOGY — From  the  Greek  amis, 
in  the  genitive  case,ormMos,  a  bird, 
and  logos,  a  discourse.  The  natural 
history  of  birds. 

ORPHEA — Specific  name  of  a  Fauvette. 

ORTYX. — From  the  Greek,  ottnx,  a 
quail.  Systematic  name  of  a  kind 
of  Partridge. 

{Latin.  Formed  from 
the  Greek,  oruza,  rice, 
and  the  Latin,  vorare, 
to  eat.  Specific  names 
of  ce  tain  Buntings. 
Os. — Latin.  A  bone. 

OSSIFRAGA Latin.     Formed    from 

o<?s<7,  bones,  and  frangere,  to  break. 
Name  of  a  kind  of  Vulture. 
OSSIFRAGUS. — Latin.     Specific  name 

of  an  eagle. 
OSTRALFGUS. — F  atm.     Sprcific  name 

of  an  Oyster-Catcher. 
OTIS. —  Lati  ••.     Fiom  the  Greek,  of  is, 
a  Bustard.     Generic  name  of  the 
Bustards. 

OTUS.— Fiom  the  Gretk,  6/os,  an 
Owl ;  formed  from  ows,  (in  the 
genitive,  oios,)  an  ear.  Generic 
name  of  a  kind  of  Owl. 
OVARY. — From  the  Latin,  ovum,  an 
eSS'  The  ovaries  are  the  organs 


in  which  the  eggs  are  formed  in 
oviparous  animals. 

OVIDUCT. — The  duct  or  c.mal  which 
leads  from  the  ovarit  s  to  the  cloaca. 

OVIPAROUS. — From  the  Latin,  ovum, 
an  i  gg,  and  parere,  to  bring  forth. 
Ai.imals  that  multiply  by  means 
of  eggs,  are  oviparous. 

PALATI.— -Latin.     Of  the  palate. 

PALMAR. — From  the  Latin,  palma, 
the  palm  of  the  hand.  Belonging 
or  relying  to  the  palm.  Also 
applied  to  the  feet  of  web-focted 
birds. 

PALMATE. — Hiving  a  membrane  be- 
twixt the  toes,  giving  the  foot  a 
remote  re-emblance  to  the  palm. 

PALMIP.-.DES. — From  the  Latin, palma, 
palm,  and  pes,  ( in  the  genitive, 
prft-S)  a  foot.  Systematic  name 
of  web-fooled  birds. 

PANCREAS. — From  the  Greek, pan,  all, 
and  kreas,  flesh,  that  is,  quitejleshy. 
A  gland  deeply  seated  in  the  ab- 
domen, which  resembles  the  sali- 
vary glands  in  its  structure,  and 
has  been  called  the  abdominal  sali* 
vary  gland. 

PARCRKATIC. — Belonging  to  the  Pan- 
creas. 

PANDION. — Generic  name  of  the  Os- 
preys. 

PAPA. — Specific  name  of  a  Vulture. 

PAPILLA. —  Lai  in.  A  nipple.  A  name 
given  to  small  eminences,  which 
appear  to  be  formed  by  the  u'ti- 
rnate  expansion  of  the  vessels  and 
nerves. 

PAPILLA.—  Plural  or  Papilla. 

PAPILLA  TED. — Covered  with  Papillae. 

PARAOIS.EA. — Generic  name  of  the 
Birds  of  Paiadise. 

PARUS. — Generic  name  of  the  Tits. 

PASSERINE. — From  the  Latin, /J'/SS'T, 
a  Sparrow.  The 'systematic  name 
of  migratory  birds. 

PASSERINE  (Birds) — Birds  of  passage. 

PATAGONICA. — Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  Patagonia. 

PAVO. — Latin.     A  Peacock. 

PECTEN. — La1  in.  A  comb.  The  name 
given  to  a  folded  membrane,  situ- 
ate in  the  back  part  of  the  eye  in 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


121 


birds,  destined  to  regulate  the  focal 
distance  between  the  crystalline 
lens  and  the  sentient  surface  of  the 
retina, 

PECTINATE  (foot.)— From  the  Latin, 
peclen,  a  comb.  Toes  fringed  like 
the  teeth  of  a  comb.  (See,  Plate 
7,  fig.  2.) 

PECTORAL. — From  the  Latin,  pectus, 
(in  the  genitive, pectoris)  the  chest, 
the  breast.  Belonging  or  relating 
to  the  chest. 

PELAGICA. — Latin.  Belonging  or  re- 
lating to  the  sea. 

PELICANUS. — Latin.     A  Pelican. 

PELVIS. — Latin.  A  basin.  The  name 
of  the  bony  structure  at  the  lower 
part  of  the  trunk,  which  forms  the 
inferior  boundary  of  the  abdomen, 
gives  support  or  place  of  foundation 
to  the  spinal  column,  and  affords 
points  of  articulation  for  the  thigh 
bones,  constituting  the  hip  joint. 

PENINSULA. — From  the  Latin,  pene, 
almost,  and  insu/o,  an  island.  Land 
almost  surrounded  by  water,  and 
connected  to  a  continent  by  a  neck 
of  land. 

PENULTIMATE. — From  the  Latin, pene, 
almost,  and  ultimus,  the  last.  That 
which  is  immediately  next  to  the 
last. 

PERCNOPTER.I. — The  plural  of  Perc- 
nopterus. 

PERCNOPTERUS.  —  From  the  Greek, 
perknos,  spotted,  and  pleron,  wing. 
Systematic  name  of  certain  Vul- 
tures. 

PERMS. — From  the  Greek,  pernes,  a 
certain  bird  of  Prey.  I'he  generic 
name  of  the  Honey-Buzzards. 

PETREL. — The  diminutive  of  Peter. 
The  name  of  a  web-footed  bird, 
that  seems  to  walk  on  the  water. 

PETROUS.— From  the  Greek,  petra,  a 
rock,  a  stone.  A  part  of  the  tem- 
poral bone,  which  contains  the 
internal  organs  of  hearing,  is  so 
call  d,  from  resembling  a  stone  in 
hardness. 

PHOTON.— From  the  Greek,  phaethon,  \ 
brilliant.  Generic  name  of  the  [ 
Tropic  bird.  i 


PHALACROCORAX. — From  the  Greek, 
phalakros,  bald,  and  korax,  a  Raven, 
The  systematic  name  of  the  Cor- 
morants, which  latter  name  is  a 
corruption  of  the  French  words, 
corbeau  matin,  Sea-crow. 

PHALANGES. — The  plural  of  Phalanx. 

PHALANX. — From  the  Greek,  phalagz, 
a  file  of  soldiers.  The  bones  com- 
posing the  fingers  and  toes.  They 
are  named,  first,  second,  and  third 
phalanges. 

PHALAROPUS. — From  the  Greek,  pha~ 
laris,  a  Coot,  and  poiis,  foot. 
Having  the  lobed  feet  of  the  Coots. 
Systematic  name  of  the  Phalaropes. 

PHALEN^E — From  the  Greek  phalaina, 
a  moth,  (of  the  kind  that  flutter^ 
about  lamps.)  Systematic  nun^ 
of  a  family  of  insects. 

PHASIANUS. —  From  the  Greek,  phasi- 
anos,  a  Pheasant,  so  called  from 
the  river  Phasis,  in  Colchis,  near 
the  Black  Sea.  The  systematic 
name  of  the  Pheasants. 

PHCENICOPTERUS. — From  the  Greek, 
pfioiniz,  red,  and  pteron,  wing. 
Red-winged.  The  generic  name 
of  the  Flamingo. 

PICA. — Latin.     A  Magpie. 

Picus. — Latin.    A  Woodpecker. 

PICTUS. — Latin.  Painted,  speckled, 
spotted. 

PILARIS. — Latin.  Belonging  to  any- 
thing round.  The  specific  name 
of  a  Thrush. 

PINION. — The  joint  of  the  wing  re- 
motest from  the  body. 

PINNATE  (foot.) — Having   the    edges 

.  of  the  toes  scalloped  or  notched,  as 
in  the  Coots. 

PINTADO. — Spanish.  Mpttled.  Gen- 
eric name  of  the  Guinea  fowl. 

PISCIVOROUS. — From  the  Latin,  piscis^ 
a  fish,  and  vorare,  to  eat.  Fish- 
eating.  Applied  to  animals  that 
feed  on  fish. 

PLATALEA. — Latin.  (  Formed  from 
the  Greek,  platus,  flat.)  The 
Generic  name  of  the  Spoonbills, 

PLOTUS. — From  the  Greek,  pluo,  I 
swim.  The  generic  name  of  tho 
Darters. 


122 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


PLOVER. — From  the  Latin,  pluvia, 
rain.  A  bird  so  called,  from  making 
its  appearance  in  the  rainy  season. 

PLUMAGE. — From  the  Latin,  pluma, 
a  soft  feather.  The  feathery  coat 
of  a  bird. 

PLUME. — Feather  of  a  bird. 

PODICEPS. — The  Generic  name  of  the 
Grebes. 

POLYGAMOUS — From  the  Greek,  polus, 
many,  and  gamos,  marriage.  When 
animals  do  not  live  in  pairs,  but  on 
the  contrary,  an  individual  is  united 
to  several  of  the  opposite  sex,  they 
are  said  to  be  polygamous. 

POLYGLOTTUS.  —  From  the  Greek, 
polus^  many,  and  glossa,  tongue. 
Many-tongued.  Specific  name  of 

X  the  Mocking  bird. 

I^ATENSIS.  —  Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  a  meadow. 

PREHENSILE.  —  Endowed  with  the 
power  of  seizing  hold  of.  Applied 
to  certain  parts. 

PREHENSION. — From  the  Latin,  pre- 
hendere,  to  lay  hold  of.  The  pre- 
hension of  aliments  consists  in  lay- 
ing hold  of,  and  conveying  food 
into  the  mouth. 

PRF.SSIROSTRES.  —  From  the  Latin, 
pressus,  pressed,  and  rosirum,beak. 
Systematic  name  of  a  family  of 
Grallatoriae. 

PREY. — Food  gotten  by  violence. 

PRIMARIES,  (Primary  quills.)— The 
largest  feathers  of  the  wings. 

PROCELLARIA. — From  the  Latin,  pro- 
celta,  a  great  tempest  at  sea.  Sys- 
tematic name  of  the  Petrels. 

PROGNOSTIC.— From  the  Greek,  pro^ 
before,  and  ginosko,  I  know,  I 
judge.  A  conjecture  or  opinion  of 
what  is  yet  to  happen. 

PROJECTILE. — From  the  Latin,  pro- 
jicere,  to  throw  in  advance,  or  to  a 
distance.  Any  heavy  body  thrown 
into  the  air,  and  abandoned  to  the 
action  of  its  own  weight.  That 
which  is  capable  of  being  cast  or 
thrown  forward.  Having  the  power 
of  sudden  extension. 

PROTRACTILE.  —  Capable  of  being 
drawn  out,  or  extended. 


PROVENTRICULUS. — From  the  Latin, 
pro,  before,  and  ventriculus,  a  little 
stomach.  The  second  stomach  of 
birds. 

PSITTACUS. — From  the  Greek,  psitta- 
kos,  a  Parrot.  Systematic  name  of 
Parrots. 

PSOPHIA. — From  the  Greek,  psophicij 
I  make  a  noise.  Systematic  name 
of  the  Trumpeters. 

PULVERATOR. — From  the  Latin,  pul- 
verare,  to  cover  with  dust.  Ap- 
plied to  those  birds  that  wallow  in 
the  dust. 

PYGARGUS. — From  the  Greek,  puge, 
behind,  and  argos,  white.  A  bird 
of  prey  with  a  white  tail. 

PYLORUS. — From  the  Greek,  pule,  a 
gate,  and  euros,  a  guardian.  The 
lower,  or  right  orifice  of  the 
stomach. 

PYRGITA. — Generic  name  of  the  Spar- 
rows. 

PYRRHULA. — Generic  name  of  the 
Bullfinches. 

QUISCALUS. — Generic  name  of  the 
Blackbirds. 

RADIUS. — Latin.  A  spoke — so  called 
from  its  shape — one  of  the  bones 
of  the  fore-arm. 

RALLUS. — Generic  name  of  the  Rails. 

RAMPHASTOS. — From  the  Greek,  ram- 
phos,  a  beak.  Generic  name  of 
the  Toucans. 

RAPACES. — From  the  Latin,  rapax, 
ravenous,  devouring.  Systematic 
name  of  the  order  of  birds  of  prey. 

RETRICES. — From  the  Latin,  reclrix, 
a  governess.  The  long  feathers  of 
the  tail  which  serve  to  steer  the  bird. 

RECURVIROSTRA.  —  From  the  Latin, 
recurvo,  I  bend  back,  and  rostrum, 
beak.  Systematic  name  of  birds 
whose  beaks  are  curved  upwards. 

REGIMEN  — Diet. 

REGULUS. — Latin.  Diminutive  of  rex, 
a  king.  A  Wren. 

REGURGITATE. — The  return  of  food  to 
the  mouth  after  it  has  been  once 
swallowed. 

RELIGIOSA. — Latin.     Religious. 

REMIGES.— The  strong  feathers  of  the 
wings. 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


123 


RETICULATED. — In  the  form  of  the 
meshes  of  a  net ;  made  of  net 
work. 

RETRACTILE. — Having  the  quality  of 
being  drawn  back. 

RHEA. — Specific  name  of  an  Ostrich. 

RHYNCHOPS. — From  the  Greek,  rug- 
chos,  beak,  a  snout.  The  syste- 
matic name  of  the  skimmers. 

RODENTIA — From  the  Latin,  rodere. 
to  gnaw.  The  systematic  name 
of  an  order  of  mammals. 

ROITELET. — French.  Diminutive  of 
roi,  a  king.  A  Wren. 

RUBER. — Latin.    Red. 

RUBICOLA,  —  Specific  name  of  the 
Stonechat. 

RUFUS. — Latin.    Reddish  yellow. 

RUPICOLA. — From  the  Latin,  rupes, 
(in  the  genitive,  rupis,)  a  rock, 
and  colere,  to  inhabit.  Generic 
name  of  Cocks  of  the  Rock. 

RUSTICA. — Latin.  Rustic  ;  belong- 
ing to  the  country. 

RUSTICOLA. — Specific  name  of  the 
Woodcock. 

SARCORAMPHUS.  —  From  the  Greek, 
sarx,  (in  the  genitive,  sarkos,") 
flesh,  and  ramphe,  knife :  cutting 
flesh  like  a  knife.  Generic  name 
of  a  kind  of  Vulture. 

SAXICOLA. — From  the  Latin,  saxus, 
a  rock,  and  colere,  to  inhabit.  Sys- 
tematic name  of  a  genus  of  Warb- 
lers. 

SCANSORI^E. — Formed  from  the  Latin, 
scando,  I  climb.  Systematic  name 
of  the  order  of  climbing  birds. 

SCAPULA. — The  shoulder  blade. 

SCAPULARS  (Scapuluries) — The  feath- 
ers that  take  their  rise  from  the 
shoulders,  and  cover  the  sides  of 
the  back. 

SCOLOPAX. — From  the  Greek,  skolo- 
pax,  a  Snipe.  Generic  name  of 
the  Snipe. 

SCOPS. — From  the  Greek,  shops,  an 
Owl.  The  systematic  name  of  an 
Owl. 

SCUTELLATED  (legs.) — Formed  from 
the  Latin,  scutum,  a  shield.  Having 
the  tarsi  covered  with  scaly  plates. 


SECONDARIES. — Those  quills  that  rise 
from  the  second  bones  of  the  wing. 

SKDENTARV. — Not  migratory. 

SERPENTARIUS. — Latin.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  serpents.  Specific  name 
of  the  Secretary  or  Serpent  bird. 

SERRATED. — From  the  Latin,  serra, 
a  saw.  Notched  or  toothed  like  a 
saw. 

SITTA. — From  the  Greek,  sittd,  I  cry. 
Generic  name  of  the  Nuthatches. 

SOMATERIA. — Systematic  name  of  the 
Eider. 

STERNA. — Systematic  name  of  the 
Terns  or  Sea  Swallows. 

STERNUM. — The  breast  bone. 

STRIX. — Latin.     An  Owl. 

STRUTHIO. — From  the  Greek,  strou- 
thion,  an  Ostrich.  Systematic 
name  of  the  Ostrich. 

STURNUS. — Latin.     A  Starling. 

STYLOID. — From  the  Greek,  stulos,  a 
style,  a  peg,  a  pin,  and  eidos,  re- 
semblance, shape.  Shaped  like  a 
peg  or  pin. 

SUBBUTEO. — From  the  Latin,  sub,  un- 
der, next,  after,  and  buteo,  a  kind 
of  Hawk.  Specific  name  of  a 
Falcon. 

SUBM AXILLARY — From  the  Latin, sub, 
under,  and  maxilla,  jaw.  That 
which  is  beneath  the  jaw. 

SULA. — From  the  Greek,  sula,  plun- 
der, booty.  Generic  name  of  the 
Boobies. 

SYLVIA. — Generic  name  of  certain 
Warblers. 

SYNDACTYLJE. — From  the  Greek,  sun, 
together,  and  daktulos,  toe,-  Hav- 
ing the  toes  joined.  Systematic 
name  of  a  family  of  passerine 
birds. 

SYRNIUM. — From  the  Greek,  surnion. 
an  owl.  Systematic  name  of  the 
Hooting  Owls. 

TACHYpETES.-From  the  Greek,  tachua 
swift,  and  petomai,  to  fly.  Syste- 
matic name  of  the  Frigate  bird. 

TALON. — The  claw  of  a  bird  of  prey. 

TANAGKA. — Systematic  name  of  the 
Tanagers. 

TARDA. — Latin.     Slow,  tardy. 

TARSI. — Plural  of  tarsus. 


124 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


TARSUS. — From  the  Greek,  torsos, 
any  row,  the  sole  of  the  foot.  The 
posterior  part  of  the  foot,  which, 
in  man,  consists  of  seven  bones, 
and  forms  the  heel  and  instep. 

TECTIFORM. — From  the  Latin  tectum, 
roof  of  a  house,  and  forma,  form. 
Roof-shaped. 

TEGIJMENTARY. — From  the  Latin,  teg- 
umen,  a  covering.  Belonging  or 
relating  to  the  tegument  or  skin. 

TKNUIROSTRKS. —  From  the  Latin,  ten- 
wis,  slender,  and  rostrum,  beak. 
Systematic  name  of  a  family  of 
passerine  birds. 

TETRAO. — Latin.  A  Bustard.  Sys- 
tematic  name  of  Grouse. 

TETRAX. — Greek.  Systematic  name 
of  the  Bustard. 

THORAX. — From  the  Greek,  thorax, 
the  chest.  It  is  bounded  posteriorly 
by  the  vertebrae  ;  laterally,  by  the 
ribs  and  scapula ;  anteriorly,  by 
the  sternum ;  above,  by  the  clavicle ; 
and  below  by  the  diaphragm.  It 
is  destined  to  lodge  and  protect  the 
chief  organs  of  respiration  and  cir- 
culation : — the  lungs  and  heart. 

THORACIC. — Belonging  to  the  thorax. 

TIBIA.— Latin.  A  flute.  The  largest 
bone  of  the  leg  is  so  called. 

TICHODROMA. — Systematic  name  of 
certain  Creepers. 

TORDA. — Specific  name  of  a  kind  of 
Auk. 

TORO.UILLA. — From  the  LatinZor^ufO, 
I  writhe.  I  twist.  Systematic  name 
of  the  Wryneck. 

TOTIPALMATVE — From  the  Latin  totus, 
the  whole,  and  palma,  the  palm. 
Systematic  name  of  a  family  of 
web-footed  birds. 

TRACHEA. — Fiom  the  Greek,  trnchus, 
rough,  and  artcria,  an  artery,which 
is  formed  from  aer,  air,  and  tertin, 
to  keep.  The  canal  which  conveys 
the  air  to  the  lungs.  The  windpipe. 

TRENCHANT. — Cutting. 

TRISTIS. — Latin.     Sad,  sorrowful. 

TROCHILUS. — Systematic  name  of  the 
Humming-birds. 

TROGLODYTES. — From  the  Greek,  fro- 
gle,  a  catern  or  hole,  and  duo,  I 


enter.  Systematic  name  of  the 
Wrens. 

TRUNK.— The  body  without  including 

*  the  head  or  extremities.  The  pro- 
boscis of  an  Elephant. 

TRUNCATED. — Cut  shoit.  Cut  abrupt- 
ly, or  square  off. 

TUBERCLE. — From  the  Latin,  tuber,  a 
knot ;  a  small  knot  or  projection. 

TURDUS.— Latin.    A  Thrush. 

TYRANNUS. — Latin.     A  tyrant. 

ULNA.— The  bone  of  the  fore-arm, 
which  forms  the  prominence  of  the 
elbow,  during  the  flexion  of  that 
joint. 

ULNAR. — Relating  to  the  ulna. 

ULULA. — Latin      An  Owl. 

UMBELLUS. — La' in.  Specific  name  of 
the  ruffed  Grouse. 

UPUPA. — Latin.     A  Hoopoo. 

URBICA. — Latin.  Belonging  or  rela- 
ting to  a  city. 

URETER. — The  tube  or  canal,  which 
passes  from  the  kidney  to  the  blad- 
der. 

URIA.— Generic  name  of  the  Guille- 
mots. 

UROGALLUS. — Specific  name  of  the 
great  Heath  Cock. 

VALESNERIA. — Generic  name  of  an 
aquatic  plant,  Channel  Weed,  upon 
which  the  Canvass  back  ducks 
feed,  and  to  which  the  peculiar 
and  delicious  flavour  of  their  flesh, 
is  said  to  be  attributable.  The  spe- 
cific name  of  the  Canvass  back 
duck. 

VANELLUS. — Generic  name  of  the 
Lapwing. 

VELUM. — Latin.     A  veil. 

VENTRICLE. — The  second  stomach  of 
a  bird  is  so  called. 

VERSICOLOR. — Latin.  Changing  col- 
our; of  virious  colours. 

VERTEBRA. — From  the  Latin,  vertere, 
to  turn.  This  name  has  been  given 
to  each  of  the  bones,  which,  by 
their  union,  form  the  vertebral  or 
spinal  column,  vulgarly  called  the 
back  bone. 

VERTEBRAE. — The  plural  of  vertebra 

VERTEBRAL. — Belonging  or  relating 
to  vertebrae. 


ORNITHOLOGY:— GLOSSARY. 


125 


VERTEBRATA. — Animals  that  possess 
vertebrae.  The  first  branch  of  the 
Animal  kingdom. 

VERTEBRATE. — Having  vertebrae. 

VESTIBULE — From  the  Latin,  vetti- 
bulum,  vestibule.  A  room  at  the 
entrance  of  an  edifice,  which  only 
serves  as  a  passage  to  other  apart- 
ments. The  first  part  of  the  second 
cavity  of  the  ear  is  so  called. 

VIBRISS^E. — Hairs  that  stand  forward 
like  feelers;  in  some  birds  they 
are  slender,  as  in  Fly-catchers,  8tc. 
and  point  both  upwards  and  down- 
wards, from  both  the  upper  and 
under  sides  of  the  mouth. 

VIRGINIANA.    )      Latin.     Belonging 

VIRGINIANUS.  £  to  Virginia. 

VISCERA. — The  plural  of  viscus. 

Viscus. — Any  bowel  or  cntrail,  or  in- 
ternal  part,"as  the  heart,  liver  lungs, 
pancreas,  &c. 


VISCIVORUS. — Systematic  name  of  a 

Thrush. 
VOCIFERUS.— Latin.  Vociferous,  noisy, 

crowing. 

VULTUR. — Latin.     A  Vulture. 
VULTURINUS.— Latin.     Belonging  or 

relating  to  a  Vulture. 
WATTLE — The  loose,  red  flesh  that 

hangs  below  a  Cock's  bill. 
YUNX. — From  the  Greek,  xunx,   the 

Wryneck.     Generic  name  of  the 

Wrynecks. 
ZOOLOGICAL. — Belonging  or   relating 

to  Zoology. 
ZOOLOGY — From  the  Greek,  zoon,  an 

animal  and  lugos,  a  discourse.  That 

part  of  natural  history  which  treats 

of  animals. 
ZYGODACTYL^E.  —  From    the   Greek, 

zugos,  a  balance,  and  daktulos,  a 

toe.    Systematic  name  of  the  order 

of  Climbers. 


FINIS. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    1. 

Fig.  1.  Skeleton  of  a  bird  seen  in  profile — ms,  superior  or  upper  man- 
dible— mi,  lower  mandible — n,  the  nasal  fossse — lt  the  tympanic  bone — or, 
the  orbit — cc,  cervical  vertebrse — wrf,  dorsal  vertebrae — 7,  vertebrae  of  the  tail 
— c,  the  ribs — ae,  costal  appendices — s,  sternum — om,  the  scapula — cl,  the 
clavicle — h,  the  humerus — re,  the  radius  and  cubitus  or  ulna—  p,  the  thumb 
d,  the  median  finger— pd,  rudiment  of  the  thumb — i,  the  iliac  bones, 
which  form  the  pelvis—/,  the  femur — *»,  tibia—  pe,  the  fibula— ta,  the  tarsus 
—  rfi,  the  internal  toe — dm,  median  toe — de,  external  toe — dp,  posterior  toe. 

Fig.  2.  The  sternum  and  bones  of  the  shoulder — s,  the  sternum — i,  the 
brisket  or  keel — c,  the  clavicles — co,  the  coracoid  bone — o,  the  scapula — ht 
a  part  of  the  humerus. 

Fig.  3.  The  head  of  a  wood-pecker  to  show  the  position  of  the  tongue,  (Z,) 
and  the  horns  of  trie  hyoid  bone  (i)»  passing  from  below  over  the  back 
part  of  the  head. 


Plate  1 


CO 


'  O 


11*  Anatomy  of  Birds. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    2. 

Fig.  1.  The  thorax  and  abdomen  of  an  Ostrich,  opened  to  show  the  great 
air  cells  which  communicate  directly  with  the  lungs,  and  transmit  the  air 
to  different  parts  of  the  body.  «,  the  trachea  or  windpipe— 6,  the  bronchi® 
— -pp,  the  lungs,  the  greater  part  of  which  are  concealed  by  the  great  air 
cells — c,  c,  c,  c,  air  cells  at  the  bottom  of  which  may  be  perceived  the  open- 
ings  of  the  bronchiae — e,  other  cells,  which  communicate  with  the  preceding 
co,  the  heart — g,  the  gizzard — i,  the  intestines. 

Fig.  2.  The  inferior  larynx  of  a  singing  bird — f,  the  trachea— 6r,  the 
bronchiae — lt  the  inferior  larynx — m,  muscles  of  the  vocal  apparatus. 

Fig.  3.  The  tongue  and  trachea  of  a  bird — Z,  the  tongue — i,  the  cornu 
of  the  os  hyoides — la,  the  superior  larynx — tr,  the  trachea — gy  the  glottis. 

Fig.  4.  The  digestive  apparatus  of  a  pigeon— <7,  the  resophagus— ;,  the 
ingluvies  or  crop, — p,  the  proventriculus  or  bulbus  glandulosus  (See  page  21.) 
— gt  the  gizzard— i,  the  small  intestine — ig,  the  large  intestine—/,  the  liver- 
pa,  the  pancreas — o,  the  ovary — ov,  the  oviduct — r,  the  kidneys — CM,  canal 
of  the  ureter — cZ,  the  cloaca. 


Plate  2. 


2. 


...t 


m 


~br 


-  cl 


Anatomy  of  Birds. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    3, 

(Generic  names.) 


Fig.     1.  Eagle 

2.  Eared  Owl Otus. 

3.  Griffin Gypaetos. 

4.  Percnopterus Percnopterus. 

5.  Great  Horned  Owl.    .     .  Strix. 

6.  Vulture Vultur. 

7.  Falcon Falco. 

8.  Kite Milvus. 

Fie.    9.  Ortolan Emberiza. 

'    10.  Kingfisher Alcedo. 

11.  Humming-bird.     .    .    .  Trochilus. 

12.  Calao •  Buceros. 


Order 

of 
Rapaces, 

or 
Birds  of  Prey. 


Order 

of 
Passerine. 


Plate 


Fig.  1  to  8. — Order  of  Rapaces. 
Fig.  9  to  12.— Order  of  Passerines. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    4. 

(Generic  Names.) 

Fig.     1.  Swallow  ......     Hirundo.  "|          Order 

2.  Goatsucker  .....     Caprimulgus.      [  f 


7.  Maccaw  ......  ^4ra. 

8.  Cockatoo  ......  Psittacus. 

9.  Woodpecker  .....  Picus. 

0.  Toucan  .......  Ramphastos. 


4.  Lark  ........     Alauda.  j 

Fig.    5.  Wryneck  ......     Yunx.  ] 

6.  Cuckoo  .......     Cuculus.  n  , 


« 

Scansonae. 


^  11.  Pheasant.     .....     Phasianus.  )         Order  of 

12.  Hucco.    ......     Aiector.  Gallinaceaa 


Plate  4. 


fig.  1  to  4. — Order  of  Pa&eriiwe. 

Fig.  5  to  10.—  Order  of  Scansorice.     Fig.  11  to  12.— Order  of 
Gallinacece. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    5. 


Fig. 


Fig. 


(Generic  names.) 

1.  Guinea-fowl Numida.           "] 

2.  Quail Coturnix.           1 

3.  Heath-cock Tetrao. 

4.  Pigeon Columba.          J 

5.  Ostrich Struthio. 

6.  Plover Charndrius. 

7.  Lapwing Vanellus. 

8.  Stork Ciconia. 

9.  Spoonbill Platalea. 

10.  Ibis 3W»- 

11.  Flamingo Phcenicopterus.  \ 


Order  of 

Gallinacece. 


Order  of 

Grallalorise. 


Plate  5. 


O.  Thomas,  Sc. 


Fig.  1  to  4. — Order  of  Gallinacece. 
12  Fig.  5  to  II.— Order  of  Grallatorice. 


EXPLANATION  OF    PLATE    6, 

(Generic  names.) 

Fig.     1.  Penguin.    .....  Aptenodytes. 

2.  Grebe.    ......  Podiceps. 

3.  Pelican.       -    -    -    •    •  PelicanuK. 

4.  Frigate  bird Tacftypetes.  Order 

5.  Gull.      - Lorvs.  \         of 

6.  Duck Anas.  \  Palmipedes. 

7.  Merganser Mergus. 

8.  Darter Plotus. 

9.  Swan -     Cygnua.  ) 


Plate  f>. 


6.  Thomas,  Sc. 


Fig.  1  to  9. — Order  of  Palmipedes. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    7. 

Fig.  1.  A  foot  formed  for  walking  and  perching,  claws  retractile ;  as  in 
the  genus  Falco. 

Fig.  2.  A  foot  formed  for  walking  and  perching,  claws  not  retractile,  as 
in  the  Gallinaceous  tribe. 

Fig.  3.  A  climbing  foot  as  in  the  Woodpeckers, — Picus. 

Fig.  4.  A  walking  foot,  as  in  the  genus  Corvus. 

Fig.  5.  Foot  of  the  King-fieher,  showing  the  situation  and  connection  of 
the  toes. 

Fig.  6.  A  spurred  leg,  as  in  the  genus  Phasianu?. 

Fig.  7.  A  leg  bare  above  the  knee,  as  in  all  the  Waders. 

Fig.  8.  A  semi-palmated  foot,  as  in  the  genus  Ardea. 

Fig.  9.  A  pinnated  foot,  with  the  edges  of  the  toes  scalloped,  as  in  the 
genera  Fnlica,  Phalaropus. 

Fig.  1 0.  A  lobated  foot,  the  toes  margined  by  membranous  edgings,  as 
in  the  genus  Podiceps. 

Fig.  11.  A  three-toed  webbed  foot  as  in  the  genus  Alca,  Uria. 

Fig.  12.  A  palmated  foot,  as  in  the  genera  Anas,  Recurvirostra. 

Fig.  13.  A  palmated  foot,  with  four  toes  connected,  as  in  the  genu* 
Pelicanus. 

Fig.  14.  The  Goldfinch ;  a,  beak  or  bill,— 6,  the  front,— c,  the  cheek,— 
<f,  the  hind-head,  or  occiput, — e,  the  breast,—/,  the  back,— g,  spurious  wing, 
— h,  shoulder,  and  lesser  wing  coverts,— i,  secondary  quill  feathers,— j, .;, 
greater  quill  feathers, — fc,  tertials, — Z,  tail  coverts,— m,  tail,— n,  great  wing 
coverts,— o,  auricles  or  auditory  conch, — p,  the  throat. 

Fig.  15.  A  spur. 

Fig.  16.  A  pectinated  foot,  as  in  the  genus  Tttrao. 


Plate  7. 


12* 


Anatomy. — Feet. 


EXPLANATION    OF    PLATE    8. 

Fig  1.  A  hooked  bill  as  in  the  genus  Fafco.  Cere,  a  bare  soft  skin  at 
the  base  of  the  bill,  Fig.  15. 

Fig,  2.  A  serrated  or  notched  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Ramphastos. 

Fig.  3.  A  cultrated  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Corvus.  Reflected  vibrissae, 
Fig.  16. 

Fig.  4.  A  cuneated  or  wedge-shaped  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Picus.  A  cylin- 
drical or  extensile  tongue,  Fig.  17. 

Fig.  5.  A  curvated  bill.    An  erected  crest.  Fig  18. 

Fig.  6.  Nostrils  covered  by,  or  contained  in  a  tube,  as  in  the  genus 
Procellaria. 

Fig.  7.  A  straight,  compressed,  cultrated  bill.  Lore,  a  bare  skin  surround- 
ing the  eyes,  Fig.  20.  Projecting  edge  of  the  upper  mandible,  by  means  of 
which  the  birds,  whose  beaks  are  thus  constructed,  cut  their  food  as  with 
scissors,  Fig.  24. 

Fig.  8.  A  hooked  notched  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Lanius,  (Shrike,)  the 
notch,  Fig.  21. 

Fig.    9.  A  recurved  bill,  as  in  the  genus,  Recurvirostra. 

Fig.  10.  A  grooved  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Alca. 

Fig.  11.  A  spoon-shaped  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Platalea.  Nail  at  the  tip 
of  the  bill,  Fig.  22. 

Fig.  12.  A  compressed  bill,  as  in  Geese. 

Fig.  13.  A  depressed  bill,  as  in  Ducks. 

Fig.  14.  A  serrated  or  toothed  bill,  as  in  the  genus  Mergus. 


Plate  8. 


15. 


16. 


Anatomy. — Beaks. 


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undertaken,  which  is  the  publishing  of  a  series  of  works  on  the  different 
branches  of  education,  for  the  use  of  schools  and  colleges.  The  present 
issue  is  a  general  and  synoptical  view  of  Ornithology,  one  of  the  most 
interesting  subjects  in  Natural  History,  and  will  be  found  of  great  service, 
both  to  teacher  and  student." 

M  This  is  a  compendious,  and,  as  it  seems  to  us.  a  judiciously  compiled 
treatise  on  Ornithology,  and  one  well  calculated  for  the  use  of  Schools ;  for 
which  object  it  is  intended." — N,  Y.  Courier  and  Enquirer. 

**  In  the  work  before  us,  the  plan  is  happily  carried  out.  In  its  small 
compass  it  embraces  an  immense  amount  of  useful  and  interesting  infor. 
mation." — Buffalo  Adv.  and  Journal. 

41  Ornithology. — This  is  evidently,  like  its  predecessors,  an  excellent  work 
of  instruction ;  and  hai  been,  in  all  respects  well  got  up  by  the  publishers."1 
— Pennsylvanian. 

"A  valuable  little  work, and  is  divided  up  and  classified  admirably.  The 
glossary,  giving  the  derivation  of  the  names  of  birds,  is  of  itself  worth  the 
price  of  the  volume." — New  York  Aurora. 

**  An  exceedingly  interesting,  and  very  instructive  book,  and  one  which 
possesses  special  attraction  for  young  ladies." — Baltimore  Sun. 

"RUSCHENBERGER'S  SERIES  :  Second  Book. — A  highly  useful  and  instructive 
school  book.  Third  Book, — This  we  consider  as  decidedly  an  acquisition 
to  our  list  of  school  books,  the  subject  is  treated  of  in  such  a  plain  style  aa 
to  be  adapted  to  the  simplest  capacity.  Altogether  we  think  the  above 
•eries  as  worthy  to  take  a  high  and  permanent  place  among  our  school 
books." — Buffalo  Democrat. 

"We  wish  we  could  induce  our  teachers  generally  to  examine  this,  a* 
well  as  the  earlier  works  of  Dr.  Ruschenberger ;  they  are  admirably 
arranged,  and  just  the  very  books  needed  for  schools.  The  work  before 
us  on  the  Natural  History  of  Birds  is  an  admirable  one,  and  no  teachei 
•hould  neglect  to  introduce  the  series.  '—Cincinnati  Gazette. 

•*  It  is  an  excellent  text-book  of  an  interesting  science,  comprising  much 
knowledge  in  a  brief  space,  presented  in  a  clear  style  and  with  lucid 
arrangement.  Dr.  Ruschenberger,  who  has  already  achieved  a  high  charac 
ter  m  the  literary  world,  is  acquiring  additional  claims  by  his  exertions  i» 
the  field  of  Natural  Science.-  Spectator,  Washington  City. 


RECOMMENDATORY    NOTICES. 

**  Ruschenberger's  Series. — These  volumes  are  constructed  upon  a  new 
and  admirable  plan,  combining  great  simplicity  of  arrangement,  with  a 
perspicuity  and  sententiousness  of  style  seldom  found  in  works  of  this 
class ;  and  which  has  elicited  the  highest  encomiums  of  upwards  of  thirty 
of  the  leading  professors  of  the  country,  whose  opinions  have  again  been 
endorsed  by  most  of  the  public  prints." — U.  States  Adv. 

"The  developement  of  the  principles  of  classification,  is  among  the  very 
best  we  have  ever  seen.  Science  is  here  dressed  in  her  own  native  sim- 
plicity and  beauty,  so  that  the  philosopher  may  admire,  while  the  child  may 
acquire  it. — Medical  Reporter.  • 

"  It  is  a  choice,  and  well  digested  work.". — Atlas. 

"  An  excellent  publication  adapted  to  the  youthful  rriiad,  and  a  great  help 
to  the  mojre  matured," — Mercury. 

"The  study  of  Natural  History  though  generally  neglected  in  schools, 
is  of  undoubted  use  :  the  present  work  contains  a  great  amount  of  infor. 
mation  within  a  small  compass,  and  properly  condenses  it  for  the  young 
mind." — N.  Y.  Journal  of  Commerce. 

"  Ruschenberger's  Series. — The  subjects  are  Well  treated,  and  from  the 
exceeding  cheapness,  and  admirable  arrangement  of  these  elementary  works, 
they  are  well  fitted  for  general  use  in  public  schools  and  academies." — 
New  York  American. 

"  We  do  not  hesitate  to  say,  that  this  is  the  best  work  of  the  kind  and 
dimensions,  that  has  even  fallen  under  our  notice.  We  hope  all  will  embrace 
the  first  opportunity  of  procuring  a  copy,  as  we  are  sure  they  will  prize 
it  highly." — Botanic  Recorder. 

"  A  well  digested  and  carefully  arranged  abstract  of  the  most  interesting 
parts  of  Natural  Science." — Philadelphia  Gazette 

"  Admirably  adapted  to  convey  an  elementary  knowledge  on  the  subject 
of  which  it  treats;  and  will  be  found  an  excellent  book  for  the  student." — 
Public  Ledger. 

"Valuable  in  every  respect, — it  contains  a  vast  amount  of  information, 
condensed  into  an  available  form,  for  the  use  of  schools." — Spirit  of  the  Times. 

"  Just  such  a  work  as  is  wanted  for  elementary  instruction,  in  this  pleas, 
ing  branch  of  science." — New  York  Evening  Post. 

"  We  regard  this  series  as  eminently  useful,  supplying  adequately  the 
instruction  in  natural  history  necessary  to  a  proper  school  education." — 
North  American. 

"  It  is  an  excellent  little  work  for  the  purpose  designed,  written  in  a  clear 
and  familiar  style,  and  will  not  fail  to  facilitate  the  studies  of  those  who 
wish  to  make  themselve*  acquainted  with  the  subject." — Saturday  Courier. 

"  Admirably  adapted  for  elementary  instruction,"— Saturday  Chronicle. 

"  We  have  great  pleasure  in  recommending  it  as  an  excellent  elementary 
manual  on  the  subject.  " — Medical  Examiner. 

"Ornithology — This  book  is  equal  in  merit  to  the  first  and  second,  and 
is  a  most  valuable  work.  It  is  intended  for  the  use  of  schools  and  acade- 
mies, and  we  would  call  the  attention  of  parents  and  others  to  the  series  of 
books  to  which  this  belongs,  assuring  them  at  the  same  time,  that  it  will 
answer  the  purpose  for  which  it  is  intended,  better  than  any  other  work  of 
the  kind  that  we  ever  saw,  or,  in  our  opinion,  that  was  ever  published  in 
this  country.  It  is  divided  into  questions  and  answers,  contains  an  exten- 
sive and  valuable  Glossary,  and  is  illustrated  by  eight  Plates  ;  and  what  is 
more,  the  price  is  so  very  low  that  every  person  can  aftord  to  purchase  it.— 
Yoik  New  Era. 

4 


SERIES. 


FIRST   BOOKS 


OP 


NATUKAL   HISTORY, 

FOR  SCHOOLS,  COLLEGES,  AND  FAMILIES. 


1.  ELEMENTS  OF 

ANATOMY  AND  PHYSIOLOGY 

2.  ELEMENTS  OF 

MAMMALOGY, 

The   Natural   History   of  Quadrupeds. 

3.  ELEMENTS  OF 

ORNITHOLOGY, 

The  Natural  History  of  Birds. 

4.  ELEMENTS  OF 

Gl( 

The  Natural  History  of  Reptiles  and  Fishes. 

5.  ELEMENTS  OF 

CONCHOLOGY, 

The  Natural  History  of  Shells  and  Mollusca 

6.  ELEMENTS  OF 

ENTOMOLOGY, 

The  Natural   History  of  Insects. 

7.  ELEMENTS  OF 

BOTANY, 

The   Natural    History   of   Plants. 

8.  ELEMENTS  OF 

G$OLOGY, 

The  Natural  History  of  the  Earth's  Structure. 

Cumbers  have  been  issued,  and  have  already  met  with  the  most 
.n  ever  extended  to  any  work  issued  from  the  America: : 
-luced  into  the  Public  Schools  of  Pennsylvania,  and  m  nearly  all  r 
first  class  seminaries  of  learning  in  the  United  States. 


